ECO code: A56
Opening Name: Benoni Defense, 3.d5 g6
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 g6 4. Nc3
Description: The move 3...g6 in the Benoni Defense signals Black's intention to fianchetto the dark-squared bishop, aiming to exert pressure along the long diagonal towards the center and White's queenside. This move is characteristic of the Modern Benoni, where Black accepts a space disadvantage in the center but seeks dynamic counterplay.
Characteristics: By fianchettoing the bishop, Black prepares to challenge White's strong pawn on d5 indirectly and supports a potential ...e6 break to undermine White's center. The setup is flexible but requires precise play to avoid being squeezed by White's spatial advantage.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, this is an attacking move aimed at counterplay rather than passive defense. White typically enjoys more central space and will look to maintain and expand this advantage, so White's strategy is more positional and controlling the center, though White can initiate attacking chances as well.
Center Control: This opening features a dynamic battle for the center. White occupies central space with pawns on d5 and c4, while Black challenges the center indirectly with the fianchettoed bishop and plans to contest it with pawn breaks like ...e6 and ...b5 later in the game.
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: 3.d5 g6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #25 black