On the same day as the battle at Spichern, the German 3rd Army making a reconnaissance-in-force stumbled upon the French right wing under McMahon ( 1st Corps) in a strong defensive position on the slopes above Wörth. The Prussian Crown Prince, commanding the 3rd Army gradually built up his strength around the French position, overlapping on both flanks. Although McMahon held out all day with no reinforcement from Bazaine, and hurled his gallant cavalry in a suicidal attempt to prevent the encirclement the position was doomed and they withdrew through Fröchwiller and towards Châlons-sur-Marne.

French Army of Napoleon III

Number engaged :

46,500

Casualties :

16,960 (36.47%)

Prussian and allied German Army

Number engaged :

125,000

Casualties :

9,573 (7.66%)