ECO code: A22
English Opening: Bremen, Smyslov Variation, 4.Bg2 Bxc3
This line arises after the moves 1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. g3 Bb4 4. Bg2 Bxc3. Black chooses to exchange the bishop for White's knight early, aiming to double White's c-pawns and influence the center indirectly. By removing the knight on c3, Black hopes to weaken White’s control over the d5 and e4 squares.
Characteristic: The move 4...Bxc3 reflects a strategic decision by Black to disrupt White’s pawn structure rather than develop more pieces or contest the center directly. This early exchange is somewhat uncommon and can lead to asymmetrical pawn structures, giving dynamic chances to both sides.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this position is generally considered flexible and slightly positional. White will often seek to exploit the bishop pair and open lines created by the doubled c-pawns, aiming for long-term pressure rather than immediate attacks. Black’s move 4...Bxc3 is more of a positional, somewhat defensive resource, aiming to reduce White’s central influence and potential attacking chances.
Center Control: This opening does not directly attack the center in the earliest moves but exerts influence from the flanks. White’s c4 and g3 setup supports a slow buildup and control over central squares from a distance, while Black’s exchange on c3 aims to undermine White’s central pawn structure indirectly.
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: Bremen, Smyslov, 4.Bg2 Bxc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #7 black