ECO code: A13
English Opening: Anglo-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3 d5 4.Bb2 c5
The sequence 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. b3 d5 4. Bb2 c5 represents a flexible and strategic approach within the English Opening framework. Here, White aims to fianchetto the light-squared bishop to b2, exerting long-range pressure on Black’s central and queenside squares. Black responds solidly with ...e6 and ...d5, challenging White's control in the center, while ...c5 strikes at White’s c4 pawn and contests central and queenside space.
Characteristic: This line is characterized by a balanced fight for central control where White uses the fianchettoed bishop to influence the center indirectly, and Black adopts a classical pawn structure typical of the Queen’s Gambit Declined setups, with a timely ...c5 break to challenge White's grip.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the setup is more positional and flexible rather than overtly attacking; White aims to build pressure gradually on Black's center and queenside. Black’s moves are solid and somewhat defensive but also prepare for counterplay by challenging the center actively with ...c5.
Center Control: Yes, this opening fights for the center. Black directly contests the central squares with ...d5 and ...c5, while White influences the center indirectly through piece placement, especially the bishop on b2 and knights, rather than immediate pawn thrusts.
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-Indian Defense, King's Knight Variation e6 3.b3 d5 4.Bb2 c5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #33 black