Michel Ney The Battle of Casal Novo was a rear-guard action fought on March 14, 1811, during Massena's retreat from Portugal.

During this retreat a French division, under command of Michel Ney, conducted a series of sharp rear-guard actions.

At Casal Novo, the recklessness of Sir William Erskine resulted in costly losses in the Light Division.

In addition to this, he found the river impossible to ford, due to the city of Coimbra being occupied by Portuguese militia under Nicholas Trant.

General Montbrun defended this position and delayed the allies long enough for the French to fall back eastwards towards Miranda de Corvo.

Sir William Erskine, in command of the British Light Division, attacked the French position at Casal Novo.

Marchand's division was held back in a strong position on raised ground near Chão de Lamas.

Marchand pulled back and formed a line with the divisions of Mermet and of Loison on the heights of Miranda do Corvo.