ECO code: A40
Englund Gambit Declined: Reversed Alekhine
Moves: 1. d4 e5 2. Nf3
FEN: rnbqkbnr/pppp1ppp/8/4p3/3P4/5N2/PPP1PPPP/RNBQKB1R b KQkq - 1 2
The Englund Gambit Declined, also known as the Reversed Alekhine, arises after Black plays 1...e5 in response to White's 1.d4, and White develops the knight to f3 instead of immediately capturing the pawn on e5. This move order avoids accepting the gambit pawn and leads to a unique position that resembles a reversed Alekhine's Defense.
Characteristic: This move 2.Nf3 declines the gambit pawn and aims to develop quickly while keeping central tension. It is a flexible, somewhat cautious approach that prevents Black from gaining a quick initiative by immediate pawn capture.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this move is more defensive and positional, focusing on solid development rather than immediate attacks. Black, however, can adopt an attacking stance by challenging White's center and exploiting the gambit pawn push.
Center Control: The opening does involve contesting the center early on. White maintains a strong presence on d4, while Black challenges the center with the pawn on e5. The declined gambit means center control will be decided by careful piece play rather than early pawn exchanges.
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 Englund Gambit Declined: Reversed Alekhine, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 17 - Move #4 white