ECO code: A50
Indian: Mexican Defence, 3.Nc3
This opening arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 Nc6 3. Nc3. It is a variation within the Indian Defence family where Black develops the knight early to c6, challenging White’s central presence.
Characteristic of 3.Nc3: By playing 3.Nc3, White reinforces control over the center, particularly the d5-square, while developing a piece naturally. It also supports potential e4 advances, aiming for strong central influence.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is generally attacking as it seeks to claim and maintain central space. Black's setup with ...Nc6 is somewhat flexible but can be seen as a mix of defense and counterattack, contesting center squares and preparing for active piece play.
Center Control: Yes, this opening centers around fighting for control of the center. White aims to dominate the center squares d4 and e4, while Black contests them with knights and prepares counterplay.
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: Mexican Defence, 3.Nc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #7 black