Serrano, the cavalry was divided into two wings under the command of colonel Valois Rivarola and major Juan Lanson respectively. At the top of the hill, just beyond the bridge over the creek was the artillery, commanded by major Moreno. According to José Bernardino Bormann, on the 5th of December Caxias arrived to inspect the camp, the troops and their willingness to venture. Asked by Caxias concerning the occupation of the bridge over the Ytororó stream and its surroundings, general Argolo Ferrão answered that it was not possible to attack due to the lack of sufficient cavalry and even mules to help pull the artillery. Although with unpleasant news about the occupation of the stream, Caxias decided to move forward and occupy the desired position by sending the squadrons of João Niederauer Sobrinho and two infantry battalions, promising to increase the strength and firepower with more infantry and artillery when they got enough animals to carry greater load. The path leading to the edge of the stream was tortuous, with a dense vegetation that hindered the movement of the units, however, when Niederauer arrived, the Paraguayans were already entrenched on the other side of the river. By nightfall, Niederauer warned general Argolo about the enemy positioning and awaited further orders from Caxias. It was already dark and with the rugged and little known terrain, Caxias ordered Niederauer to retreat, but also to tell the general about strategic positions in which the advanced forces should remain until dawn. During the wait, it is reported that the troops had a festive air, the soldiers were at ease, dancing and singing around campfires. After a night of joy and festivities to overcome nervousness, Dec. 6 arrives with silence and apprehension. With the touch of dawn, the soldiers begin their chores and ready for the inevitable conflict. To get to the bridge Itororó through the city of San Antonio, Brazilian troops would travel more than two miles, through a difficult road for the cavalry and artillery. For the safety of the group, the Brigade of Colonel Fernando Machado composed of four battalions followed in the rear, making the security of the 2nd Army Corps. The latter ensured the protection of the first group, the Squadron Cavalry Brigade Colonel Niederauer Nephew. When the task force came together to bridge Itororó the army commanded by Colonel Serrano was already in place, waiting for the clash with