Their spell in the 1995–96 season resulted in a disappointing campaign, starting the championship with a 7–0 defeat away to Sporting CP and eventually leading to relegation.

The 1996–97 season in the second division earned them a first ever national title, with former Chaves and Paços de Ferreira striker Rudi being the top goalscorer.

Christmas brought coach João Alves (former Taça de Portugal winner with Estrela da Amadora in 1990) along with Brazilian players such as Isaías (previously with Benfica and Coventry City) and Demétrios.

This season all three major clubs' had soon been eliminated: Porto's shock defeat at third division side Torreense, Sporting CP's loss to Gil Vicente, and Benfica's to Vitória de Setúbal.

However, a late dramatic goal by Porto's on-loan midfielder Ricardo Sousa ended the dream for Campomaiorense who lost the match 0–1.

[12] The club managed to remain in the top division for two more seasons, but following relegation in 2001 and inability to return the following year led to the decision to abandon professional football.