The Battle of Isbuscenskij was a clash between Italo-German forces and defending Russians, that took place between 22 and 26 August 1942 on the steppes of Isbuschenski. On the night of 22/23 August, the Russian 197th, 203rd Rifle Divisions and 14th Guards Division with tank support, attacked the Sforzesca Division. The Italians lost ground, but reinforced the Sforzesca with the Novarra and Savoia Cavalry Regiments and a German infantry regiment. A counter-attack from the Pasubio Division and supporting 88th Croat Legion and German battalion failed in the face of heavy enemy fire. The Axis commander, General Giovanni Messe hoped to restore the broken lines with a diversionary attack.