ECO code: A10
Opening Name: English Opening: Anglo-Dutch Variation, c6 Line
Moves: 1. c4 f5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. g3 e6 4. Bg2 c6
Description: This variation arises when Black combines the Dutch Defense setup (with ...f5) with a solid pawn structure involving ...e6 and ...c6. Black aims for a sturdy foothold in the center and prepares for potential ...d5 breaks. White typically fianchettoes the kingside bishop, focusing on controlling the long diagonal and maintaining central tension.
Characteristic of 4...c6: The move ...c6 supports Black’s center and prepares to challenge White’s control of the d5-square. It also provides a solid base for Black’s queenside development and can help prevent White’s knight or bishop from easily accessing d5.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this setup is somewhat defensive but flexible—Black aims for a solid structure rather than immediate aggression. White’s plan is often to maintain pressure on the center and leverage the fianchettoed bishop for a subtle, positional initiative. Overall, White plays more on controlling and pressuring the center, while Black focuses on solid defense and counterplay.
Center Control: Both sides contest central squares indirectly. Black does not occupy the center with pawns immediately but prepares to challenge it with ...d5 later. White controls the center primarily through piece activity and the influence of the fianchettoed bishop, rather than occupying it with pawns.
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.