ECO code: A56
Opening Name: Benoni: 3.dxc5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. dxc5
Description: The move 3.dxc5 in the Benoni Defense captures the pawn on c5 early, diverging from the more common lines where White supports the center with e4 or maintains tension. By taking on c5, White aims to grab material and challenge Black’s typical pawn break and central counterplay.
Characteristic: This move is characteristic for its attempt to gain a material edge and disrupt Black's typical Benoni structure. However, it also gives Black easy development and dynamic counterplay, as Black can quickly recapture the pawn with a piece and strike back in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, 3.dxc5 is more of a positional and materialistic choice rather than a direct attacking move. It is slightly defensive in nature because White temporarily relinquishes central control to secure the pawn. For Black, the response is typically aggressive and attacking, aiming to exploit White’s early capture and regain activity.
Center Control: This opening variation results in White relinquishing some control over the center, allowing Black to challenge and counterattack in the central squares quickly. Thus, it is not a direct attack on the center by White, but rather a strategic choice to disrupt Black’s setup.
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.dxc5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 13 - Move #6 white