Lion Dance Tassel Charms - Green

Backs against the river, we fight.

背水一戰 means, literally, to fight with the river at your back. This chengyu originates from a famous battle during the Han Dynasty, where General Hán Xìn, an excellent military strategist, led his army against a much larger enemy force. He positioned his troops with their backs against an uncrossable river, appearing to put them at a disadvantage. However, because they had no means of retreat, his soldiers fought with extraordinary audacity and ultimately seized victory. 

The phrase is often used to describe situations in which someone must give their absolute best effort because failure is not an option. Often applied in sports, business, exams and other personal challenges.