ECO code: A16
Opening Name: English: Anglo-Indian, 2.Nc3 Nc6
Moves: 1. c4 Nf6 2. Nc3 Nc6
Description: This variation of the English Opening features an early development of the knights by both sides—White plays 2.Nc3 supporting control over the central d5 square, while Black responds symmetrically with 2...Nc6. The position is flexible, allowing both sides to choose from a variety of plans including central pawn breaks or flank attacks.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this line is the contest over central squares through piece play rather than immediate pawn occupation. Both sides develop knights to natural squares, preparing to challenge the center indirectly.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this setup is generally considered flexible and can be adapted for both attacking or positional play depending on how the center and flanks evolve. Black’s response is solid and aims for a balanced position, often leading to a strategic battle rather than immediate attacks.
Center Control: While no direct pawn strikes in the center occur in the first two moves, both sides aim to control key central squares—especially d4 and d5—using their knights. The opening focuses on indirect control of the center rather than immediate occupation.
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-Indian, 2.Nc3 Nc6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #7 white