ECO code: A56
Opening Name: Benoni: 2...c5 3.e3 e6
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. e3 e6
Description: This variation of the Benoni Defense features Black challenging White's central control early with ...c5, aiming to undermine White's d4 pawn. The move 3...e6 supports the d5 square and prepares to develop the dark-squared bishop while maintaining a flexible pawn structure. White’s choice of 3.e3 is somewhat modest, reinforcing d4 and preparing to develop the light-squared bishop, but it limits the scope of the c1-bishop and slows White’s central and kingside activity.
Characteristic: The move 3...e6 is characteristic of a more solid and flexible Benoni setup, blending typical Benoni counterplay with some elements of the Nimzo-Indian or Queen’s Gambit Declined structures. Black delays the immediate ...d5 break and focuses on solid development and control of key central squares.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this line is somewhat defensive and positional, aiming for counterplay rather than immediate aggression. White plays a more restrained, solid setup, focusing on a strong center and smooth development rather than direct attacks.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center but in different ways. White maintains a strong pawn center with pawns on d4 and e3, while Black applies pressure on d4 with ...c5 and prepares to challenge central control with ...d5 or piece play. The opening does involve central tension, but White holds the central space initially.
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 Benoni: 2...c5 3.e3 e6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 white