ECO code: A09
Reti: Accepted, 3.e3 Nf6 4.Bxc4
This line arises after the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. e3 Nf6 4. Bxc4. White recaptures the pawn on c4 early with the bishop, aiming to quickly develop and exert pressure on Black’s position.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is White's early recovery of the pawn on c4 by developing the bishop to an active square. This emphasizes piece activity and flexible development over immediate central pawn occupation.
Nature of Play: From White’s perspective, this setup is generally positional and flexible, leaning towards a controlled, somewhat indirect approach to the center rather than a direct confrontation. White focuses on piece development and control of key squares, rather than immediate aggressive attacks. Black, meanwhile, aims to complete development and challenge White’s setup.
Center Control: White does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but influences it indirectly through piece pressure and readiness to support central breaks later. This opening embodies a hypermodern approach, inviting Black to occupy the center first while preparing to undermine it.
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 Reti: Accepted, 3.e3 Nf6 4.Bxc4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #5 black