ECO code: A43
Old Benoni: 2.d5 e6 3.c4
The Old Benoni arises after the moves 1.d4 c5 2.d5 e6 3.c4 exd5 4.cxd5. This opening is characterized by Black's early challenge to White's center with ...c5 and ...e6, aiming to undermine White's d5 pawn and gain counterplay on the dark squares.
Characteristic: Black immediately contests White's central space by striking at the d5 pawn, leading to an asymmetrical pawn structure and dynamic play. White's setup with c4 supports strong central control and space advantage.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, the approach is primarily attacking, focusing on maintaining a strong central pawn presence and spatial advantage. Black’s play is more counterattacking, aiming to challenge White’s center and create counterplay on the queenside and central squares.
Center Control: This opening strongly attacks the center, with both sides contesting key central squares from early on. White aims to hold and expand in the center, while Black works to undermine it.
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 3.c4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #9 white