ECO code: A00
Benko Opening 3.c4 dxc4
The Benko Opening arises after the moves 1. g3 d5 2. Bg2 e5 3. c4 dxc4. Here, Black captures the pawn on c4, temporarily grabbing material but allowing White to challenge the center and open lines for development.
Characteristic: This opening is characterized by Black's willingness to accept a pawn deficit on the queenside in exchange for active piece play and control of central and dark squares. The capture on c4 aims to disrupt White's central presence and tempt White into overextending.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, the play is generally attacking, as White will seek to regain the pawn and use the fianchettoed bishop on g2 to exert pressure on Black's center and queenside. Black’s approach is also active and attacking, aiming to maintain dynamic piece activity rather than simply defending.
Center Control: This opening involves a direct contest over the center. Black challenges White's central pawns early with 2...e5, and the capture on c4 temporarily cedes some central control. However, both sides are focused on influencing the center dynamically rather than establishing a solid pawn center immediately.
This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Benko Opening 3.c4 dxc4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #5 black