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.
English Opening: Symmetrical Variation, Anti-Benoni Variation, Geller Variation
Moves: 1. Nf3 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. d4 cxd4 5. Nxd4 e6 6. g3 Qb6
This opening arises from the English Opening with a symmetrical pawn structure and early central tension. The defining characteristic of the Geller Variation is Black’s 6...Qb6, which puts immediate pressure on White’s d4-knight and the b2-pawn, aiming to challenge White’s central presence and queenside development.
From White’s perspective, the setup with 6.g3 signals a fianchetto of the bishop, reinforcing control over the long diagonal and supporting the center. White’s approach is generally more positional and flexible, focusing on solid central control and piece development rather than direct immediate attacks.
Black’s move 6...Qb6 is somewhat aggressive, seeking to provoke weaknesses or gain time by targeting White’s queenside pawns and central pieces. It can be seen as a semi-attacking move, putting pressure on White’s position while maintaining a solid defensive foundation.
In terms of center control, this opening involves active contesting of the central squares. White establishes a strong pawn presence in the center early on with d4, while Black challenges it directly with c5 and e6. The opening is balanced between attacking and defensive ideas, with both sides fighting for influence over the center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the English Opening: Symmetrical Variation, Anti-Benoni Variation, Geller Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used English Opening: Symmetrical Variation, Anti-Benoni Variation, Geller Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.