Battle of Sabugal

The Battle of Sabugal took place during Masséna's retreat from Portugal. General Reynier, commanding the rearguard, was unexpectedly attacked by a British brigade that crossed the river in the fog. Despite initial resistance, his troops were put in difficulty and had to retreat in disorder.

After failure before the Lines of Torres Vedras and impossible supply, the French army retreated toward Spain. Wellington launched a series of attacks on the rearguard, of which Sabugal was the most significant. Wellington himself sometimes called it "the most beautiful."

The fog allowed the British to surprise Reynier by crossing the Côa River. Despite an initial French counterattack, the Anglo-Portuguese forces gained the advantage. Reynier ordered withdrawal before encirclement.

The defeat hastened the definitive withdrawal of French troops from Portugal. It contributed to the end of Masséna's campaign and strengthened the British position in Iberia. French morale collapsed in the region.