ECO code: A16
English: Anglo-Grünfeld, 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.g3
The Anglo-Grünfeld is a hybrid opening arising from the English Opening when White captures on d5 early and follows up with 4.g3. After 1.c4 Nf6 2.Nc3 d5 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.g3, White prepares to fianchetto the bishop on g2, aiming for strong long-term control over the central and diagonal squares.
Characteristic: The move 4.g3 is characteristic for supporting a solid kingside fianchetto, reinforcing control over the central dark squares, especially d5 and e4, and providing a flexible, positional setup.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this setup is primarily positional and somewhat defensive, focusing on controlling key central squares and maintaining a stable, harmonious piece placement rather than immediate aggressive attacks. Black, however, often seeks active counterplay by challenging White’s center and exploiting the open lines.
Center Control: White does not directly occupy the center with pawns early on, but through piece pressure and the fianchettoed bishop, White exerts strong influence on the central squares. Black typically aims to challenge and contest the center dynamically.
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: Anglo-Gruenfeld, 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.g3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #6 white