The 2002-03 campaign was a season of dramatic, financially-driven change for Lazio, yet the Biancocelesti rose above the turmoil, finishing a crucial 4th in Serie A under new, young manager Roberto Mancini, securing a coveted Champions League qualifying spot. The year was marked by the enforced sales of legends like Alessandro Nesta and Hernán Crespo, but also the emergence of a devastating strike partnership. Leading the charge was the Argentine forward Claudio 'Piojo' López, whose best-ever return of 15 Serie A goals proved vital, notably including a sensational hat-trick in a 3-3 draw against rivals Inter. The team, built on the solid base of players like Jaap Stam, Siniša Mihajlović, and Dejan Stanković, also mounted strong runs to the semi-finals of both the Coppa Italia and the UEFA Cup (losing only to eventual winners Porto), marking a successful, defiant chapter in the club's history.