The Battle of Ligny and the Battle of Quatre Bras marked crucial confrontations on the eve of the widely consequential Battle of Waterloo. At Ligny, Napoleon aimed to defeat the Prussian army to prevent it from reinforcing the British-led coalition. He confronted Blücher's forces with approximately 68,000 men, employing decisive tactics that allowed him to claim victory despite heavy casualties. The battle was characterized by brutal fighting and demonstrated Napoleon’s tactical brilliance, though the Prussians managed to retreat in reasonably organized fashion to fight another day.

Simultaneously, the Battle of Quatre Bras unfolded as Wellington's forces, numbering around 30,000 strong, clashed with Ney’s French troops in an attempt to hold the junction. Despite being outnumbered, Wellington’s troops exercised defensive tactics that staved off a French breakthrough. This battle highlighted the collaborative efforts between British and Dutch-Belgian forces, setting the stage for the ensuing engagements during the Waterloo campaign. The tactics, troop movements, and decisions made during these battles were foundational for the larger confrontation to come.

Both battles provided Napoleon insights into the composition and morale of his adversaries, which he would factor into his plans against Wellington's forces. Importantly, the outcomes of these confrontations, particularly the ability of the Prussians to withdraw effectively despite defeat, would have profound implications for the battle that followed just two days later. The coordination and communication among the Allied forces were crucial, and the lessons learned about each other's strengths and weaknesses would play a pivotal role in the Strategy at Waterloo.