ECO code: A43
Old Benoni: 2.d5 e6
Moves: 1. d4 c5 2. d5 e6
FEN: rnbqkbnr/pp1p1ppp/4p3/2pP4/8/8/PPP1PPPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq - 0 3
The Old Benoni with 2...e6 is a flexible and somewhat provocative response by Black, aiming to challenge White's strong pawn on d5 and undermine White's central control. By playing e6, Black prepares to contest the center, especially the d5-pawn, and possibly open lines for the dark-squared bishop.
Characteristic: This move signals Black's intention to strike at White's advanced d5-pawn, often leading to pawn breaks in the center or timely exchanges. It can transpose into various Benoni or Benko-like structures, but with a more solid and less committal approach early on.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, 2...e6 is a balanced approach; it is neither purely attacking nor purely defensive but aims for counterplay by undermining White's center. White, having space advantage with the pawn on d5, usually adopts an attacking stance, trying to maintain central control and restrict Black's counterplay.
Center Control: This opening directly contests the center. White initially grabs space with d5, but Black's move e6 challenges that control and sets the stage for central tension and possible 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 Old Benoni: 2.d5 e6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 13 - Move #5 black