ECO code: A16
English Opening: Anglo-Grünfeld, 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.g3 g6 5.Bg2
This opening arises after the moves 1.c4 Nf6 2.Nc3 d5 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.g3 g6 5.Bg2. It combines ideas from the English Opening with a Grünfeld Defense setup by Black. White captures on d5 early to challenge Black's central presence and then fianchettoes the bishop on g2, aiming for strong control over the long diagonal and influence on the center from a distance.
Characteristic: The key feature of this line is White's early exchange on d5 followed by a kingside fianchetto, which supports a hypermodern approach—controlling the center with pieces rather than occupying it immediately with pawns.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this setup is generally flexible and can be both attacking and positional. White prepares to exert pressure on the center and Black's queenside while maintaining solid king safety. Black's setup with ...g6 and ...Nxd5 is also solid and aims for counterplay in the center and on the dark squares.
Center Control: White does not occupy the center with pawns right away but contests it actively with pieces and pressure, reflecting hypermodern principles. Black tries to maintain a strong central presence, so the battle for the center is dynamic and balanced.
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 g6 5.Bg2, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #8 white