Two Spanish armies approached Madrid from the north and the south in a pincer movement. The southern arm led by General Areizaga stood to fight the French who had far fewer men but were superior in cavalry. While his infantry pinned the centre Soult's cavalry rolled up the Spanish from their exposed right flank. The Spanish suffered enormous losses in both men, guns, horses and materials of war.

A small town in central Spain about 50 miles south of Madrid. (Spain)

French Forces

Number engaged :

29,000

Casualties :

2,000 (6.90%)

Spanish Forces

Number engaged :

55,440

Casualties :

18,000 (32.47%)