ECO code: A43
Name: Benoni Defense: Old Benoni
Moves: 1. d4 c5
FEN: rnbqkbnr/pp1ppppp/8/2p5/3P4/8/PPP1PPPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq - 0 2
The Old Benoni begins with Black immediately challenging White's central pawn on d4 by playing 1...c5. This move is characteristic of an early flank attack on White's center rather than the more traditional direct central counterattacks. By striking at d4 from the side, Black aims to undermine White's central control and create dynamic imbalance.
From Black's perspective, the Old Benoni is considered an attacking and somewhat provocative defense, as it invites White to occupy the center while planning counterplay. White, on the other hand, can use this opening to develop a strong central presence and maintain an attacking posture, often aiming to exploit the early c5 pawn move.
Regarding central control, this opening is fundamentally about contesting the center indirectly. Black does not immediately occupy the center but challenges it with the flank pawn move c5, aiming to undermine White's d4 pawn and disrupt White's central dominance. White typically continues to build and solidify control over the center, maintaining the initiative.
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 Benoni Defense: Old Benoni, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 262 - Move #4 white