The 2001-02 campaign was a tense, hard-fought battle for 1. FC Nürnberg as the promoted side sought to consolidate their status back in the Bundesliga. Der Club ultimately secured their top-flight survival with a crucial 15th-place finish, narrowly avoiding the drop after their return to the elite. Leading the charge for goals was the newly-emerged young Brazilian forward Cacau, who made an instant impact by firing in 6 crucial goals, including a famous debut brace against Bayer Leverkusen. This hard-won season, built on determination and the promise of a future star, marked an important chapter in the club's history of re-establishing themselves in the German top tier.