The 2002-03 campaign saw the "Flying Donkeys" (Gialloblu) consolidate their status in the Serie A elite, securing a respectable 7th-place finish under manager Luigi Delneri. Leading the attack was the local hero, Federico Cossato, whose 9 league goals proved vital in a campaign built on grit and exciting football. The season was memorable for their shock 3-2 victory over AC Milan and a decisive 1-0 away win against Roma, though their European debut ended with a quick elimination from the UEFA Cup. It was a solid year that cemented Chievo's reputation as a Serie A dark horse and remains a defining chapter of the "Verona Miracle" era.