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The Emperor has made it clear: We are to take barcelona or go home in pieces! Onwards men, our Emperor is watching! Vive l’Empereur!!!

Battle of El Llobregat

3rd of August 1808

Although the French failed to take Sabadell in the first battle of Barcelona, the British were not able to pressure and pursue the retreating French. Thus, the two French Corps were able to unite under the Soult’s command. The British-Spanish armies remained in the field, positioning at the Fort Montjuic along the river El Llobregat, in order to keep all routes open. The British and Spanish can only wait as the united French army comes back for more.

The French are to conquer Santa Maria de Sants at the northern battle theatre and to cross the river El Lloregart in the south and at least hold a larger bridgehead.

If the river is crossed, all British and Spanish troops will have to withdraw; If the British-Spanish are able to take Santa Maria de Sants, it is not possible to retreat to Barcelona. This allows for a quick and effective siege of Fort Montjuic.

If both fail, the French will have to withdraw.

The Battle of El Llobregat proved to be no more decisive than the last battle. Both sides didn’t reach their objective but again prevented the enemy from achieving their goal.

All troupes stayed in the area.

Losses:
France: 460 Infantry, 60 Cavalry, 3 Guns;
Spain: 90 Infantry, 40 Cavalry;
Britain: 340 Infantry (no Guards).

Due to wounded and stragglers only half of these are taken as real losses:
France: 6 bns, 5 sqns, 1 battery;
Spain: 2 bns, 4 sqns;
Britain: 5 bns.
Furthermore, these losses are again reduced by 1/4 for the campaign.