The 2008-09 campaign delivered a heart-stopping fight for survival for Les Verts as Saint-Etienne narrowly clung onto their top-flight status, finishing a perilous 17th in Ligue 1 and avoiding relegation on the final matchday. Despite the domestic turmoil, the season was highlighted by the club's emotional return to European competition for the first time in 26 years, which saw them reach the UEFA Cup Round of 16 after an unbeaten group stage run. Leading the attack were the vital goals from Bafétimbi Gomis and Ilan, whose efforts anchored a turbulent year that remains a defining chapter of grit and continental adventure for the club.