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. This opening is characterized by Black's early challenge to White's central pawn on d5 with the move ...e6, aiming to undermine White's advanced d5-pawn and contest control of the center indirectly.
From White's perspective, the setup with 2.d5 and 3.c4 is somewhat attacking in nature, as White gains spatial advantage and tries to maintain a strong pawn wedge in the center, restricting Black's central counterplay. Black's approach is more defensive initially, focusing on counterattacking White's center later.
The opening is very much about control and contesting the center: White takes space and blocks Black’s immediate central breaks, while Black prepares to challenge the center with moves like ...exd5 or ...b5 in some lines. Thus, the Old Benoni features a dynamic struggle over central control rather than direct early attacks.
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 16 - Move #6 black