ECO code: A46
Opening Name: Neo-Benoni 3.dxc5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 c5 3. dxc5
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pp1ppppp/5n2/2P5/8/5N2/PPP1PPPP/RNBQKB1R b KQkq - 0 3
The Neo-Benoni with 3.dxc5 is characterized by White immediately capturing the pawn on c5, aiming to gain material and disrupt Black's typical counterplay in the center. This move temporarily grabs a pawn but concedes some central presence to Black.
For White, this move is somewhat defensive in nature, as it avoids the direct central tension and tries to hold on to extra material. Black, on the other hand, seeks active counterplay and development to undermine White’s center and regain the pawn.
Regarding control of the center, White’s 3.dxc5 does not directly contest the center with pawns but rather focuses on material. Black will try to challenge the center with moves like ...d6 and ...Nc6, aiming to open lines and activate pieces. Thus, the opening leads to a dynamic battle over central control, with Black striving to take the initiative.
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 Neo-Benoni 3.dxc5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #6 white