Porto (runners up) after the team's record breaking 18-0 aggregate win over Maltese champions Valletta.
Rangers were overseen by former midfielder Tommy McLean, who acted as caretaker, whilst attempts were made to find a new permanent manager.
On 10 November 1983, Jock Wallace was persuaded by the Rangers board to leave Motherwell and return to the club.
Wallace also added to the squad during the season; Bobby Williamson arrived from Clydebank, Nicky Walker from old club Motherwell and Stuart Munro from Alloa Athletic.
The game finished in a 3–0 defeat but subsequently the side went on a 22 match unbeaten run in all competitions until March 1984.