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, Geller Variation, 7.Nb3 Ne5
This line arises after the moves 1.c4 c5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 e6 5.Nc3 Nc6 6.g3 Qb6 7.Nb3 Ne5. It is a rich, complex variation of the Symmetrical English where both sides contest key central and queenside squares.
The characteristic move 7...Ne5 by Black aims to actively challenge White's control in the center and eyes key squares such as d3 and c4. It also prepares for potential kingside activity and puts immediate pressure on White's knight on b3 and the c4-pawn.
From Black’s perspective, this is an attacking move, seeking to gain central influence and create tactical opportunities. White, on the other hand, will usually adopt a more positional approach, maintaining solid control over the center and preparing to undermine Black’s knight on e5.
Overall, this opening variation is very much about control and contest of the center, with both sides fighting to establish a foothold. White’s early d4 and Nb3 moves support central and queenside influence, while Black’s ...Ne5 is a direct attempt to challenge and disrupt that control.
You can also discover how top players used English: Symmetrical, Geller, 7.Nb3 Ne5 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.