ECO code: A43
Old Benoni: Schmidt Variation, 3.e4 Nf6
This line arises after the moves 1. d4 c5 2. d5 d6 3. e4 Nf6 4. Nc3. Black challenges White’s strong pawn center by immediately developing the knight to f6, putting pressure on the e4 pawn and preparing to contest the central squares.
Characteristic of 3...Nf6: This move is a flexible developing move that targets White’s center and prepares for kingside development. It signals Black’s intention to fight actively rather than passively defend.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, the position remains largely attacking due to the strong pawn center on d5 and e4, aiming to space control and central dominance. Black plays a somewhat reactive but dynamic approach, focusing on undermining White’s center and counterattacking chances.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White establishes a broad pawn center with d5 and e4, while Black counters by pressuring these pawns and challenging central control through piece play and pawn breaks.
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.e4 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #8 black