ECO code: A10
English Opening: Anglo-Scandinavian Defense 2.cxd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3
This variation arises after the moves 1.c4 d5 2.cxd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3. Here, White immediately challenges Black's queen on d5 with the knight, developing a piece while gaining a tempo by attacking the queen.
Characteristic: The move 3.Nc3 is characteristic for putting immediate pressure on Black's queen, forcing it to decide its position early. This often leads to Black having to move the queen again, giving White a lead in development.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is attacking in nature, aiming to seize the initiative by developing with tempo and disrupting Black's coordination. For Black, the opening leans toward a defensive stance, as Black must be careful in queen placement and development to avoid falling behind.
Center Control: This opening indirectly contests the center. While Black occupies the center with the queen on d5, White challenges it actively. The early exchange on d5 means the center is immediately contested, and White’s quick development aims to undermine Black’s central presence.
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 English Opening: Anglo-Scandinavian Defense 2.cxd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 20 - Move #6 black