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.
Name: Benoni Defense
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pp1ppppp/5n2/2p5/2PP4/8/PP2PPPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq - 0 3
The Benoni Defense is characterized by Black immediately challenging White's control of the center with the ...c5 pawn thrust. Instead of occupying the center directly with pawns, Black aims for dynamic counterplay by putting pressure on White's d4 pawn and seeking active piece play.
From Black's perspective, the Benoni is an attacking and counterattacking opening. Black often accepts a somewhat cramped position initially but plans to strike back aggressively on the queenside and in the center later.
White, on the other hand, usually adopts a more positional and space-gaining approach, aiming to maintain strong central presence with pawns on d4 and c4, often looking to expand in the center and kingside.
Regarding central control, the Benoni Defense does involve an indirect fight for the center. Black does not immediately occupy the center with pawns but contests it by attacking White's central pawns and preparing counterplay, so it is a dynamic contest over the center rather than a direct occupation.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Benoni Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 90 - Move #6 white
You can also discover how top players used Benoni Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.