The confrontation in the English Channel was rooted in the broader context of the Eighty Years' War (1568-1648) between the Spanish Empire and the Dutch Republic, and the Anglo-Spanish War (1585-1604). By the end of the 16th century, both the English and the Dutch sought to challenge Spanish naval supremacy and secure their trade routes in European waters. The Spanish fleet, relying on galleys, which were more traditional oared vessels, aimed to project power and control the channel. However, the English and Dutch galleons, equipped with better cannons and superior sailing technology, proved to be more effective in a naval confrontation. The battle occurred near the coast of the Netherlands, where the geography favored the maneuverability of the galleons over the heavier, slower galleys.

The engagement itself was marked by tactical skill and fierce fighting, as the combined fleet of England and the Netherlands outmaneuvered their Spanish counterparts. The victory not only showcased the alliance's naval prowess but also served as a morale booster for both nations amidst their prolonged conflicts against Spanish hegemony. Losses on the Spanish side were noteworthy and underscored the vulnerability of their fleet, which had previously been unassailable. Following the defeat, Spain reevaluated its naval strategies, recognizing that galleys were less suited for the demands of Atlantic and Channel warfare. The English and Dutch used their newfound success to further expand their maritime ambitions, marking a significant shift in naval warfare dynamics in Northwestern Europe.