ECO code: A43
Old Benoni: Schmidt Variation, 3.Nc3 Nf6
The Old Benoni begins with 1.d4 c5, an immediate challenge to White’s center from Black. After 2.d5 d6, White develops the knight to c3, reinforcing control over the central squares, especially d5. Black responds with 3...Nf6, developing a knight to pressure White’s center and prepare for kingside safety.
Characteristic: This move order reflects a flexible and somewhat solid approach for Black, aiming to undermine White’s center indirectly rather than occupying it outright. Black delays committing the central pawns and focuses on piece development and control of key central and queenside squares.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, the setup is primarily focused on maintaining and expanding central space, which is an attacking posture. Black’s moves are more reactive and preparatory, leaning toward a defensive and counter-attacking stance, waiting to challenge White’s center at the right moment.
Center Control: White clearly aims to control the center with the pawn on d5 and knight on c3, while Black contests this control indirectly rather than seizing the center immediately. The position is about tension and maneuvering around central control rather than direct occupation by Black at this stage.
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: Schmidt, 3.Nc3 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #9 white