ECO code: A46
Opening Name: Indian Defense: 1.d4 Nf6 2.Nf3 e6 3.e3 c5
This setup arises from the Indian Defense family, where Black challenges White's central control with the move ...c5. By playing ...c5, Black immediately puts pressure on White's d4 pawn and seeks to undermine White's center from the flank.
Characteristic: The move ...c5 is a common thematic break in many Indian systems, aiming to contest the center without committing the central pawns too early. Black maintains flexibility and prepares for active counterplay.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, the move ...c5 is slightly more active and can be seen as an attempt to gain counterplay rather than purely defensive. White's setup with e3 is solid and somewhat restrained, focusing on a strong, flexible center rather than immediate aggression.
Center Control: This opening definitely involves a fight over the center. White occupies the center with pawns on d4 and e3, while Black challenges it indirectly with ...c5 and piece pressure. The tension in the center is a hallmark of this opening.
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 Indian: 1.d4 Nf6 2.Nf3 e6 3.e3 c5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #6 white