ECO code: A53
Old Indian: Ukrainian, 4.dxe5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 d6 3. Nc3 e5 4. dxe5
FEN: rnbqkb1r/ppp2ppp/3p1n2/4P3/2P5/2N5/PP2PPPP/R1BQKBNR b KQkq - 0 4
This variation arises when White challenges Black's central pawn thrust immediately by capturing on e5. The characteristic feature of 4.dxe5 is that White opts to simplify the tension in the center early, instead of maintaining it with moves like Nf3 or e4.
From White's perspective, this move is more positional and somewhat defensive, aiming to reduce Black's central control and avoid complex central battles. Black, on the other hand, often seeks dynamic counterplay by recapturing on e5 and developing actively.
Regarding center control, White's capture on e5 temporarily relinquishes direct central presence but attempts to undermine Black's strong pawn on d6 and e5. Black aims to maintain a foothold in the center, so this opening is a mix of both sides contesting the center, with Black striving for active central play while White tries to neutralize it early.
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 Indian: Ukrainian, 4.dxe5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #8 black