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.
Benko Gambit Accepted
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5 4. cxb5 a6
The Benko Gambit Accepted is a dynamic and popular opening choice for Black against 1.d4. By offering the b5 pawn, Black aims to gain long-term pressure on the queenside and open lines for the rook and bishop.
Characteristic of this move: The move 4...a6 immediately challenges White’s pawn on b5, seeking to either regain the pawn or open the a- and b-files for active piece play. It is a hallmark of the Benko Gambit’s strategy to sacrifice material for active piece activity and positional pressure.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, this gambit is decidedly attacking. Black sacrifices a pawn to achieve strong initiative on the queenside, targeting White’s queenside structure and controlling key open files. White’s play is more positional and somewhat defensive, aiming to consolidate the extra pawn while neutralizing Black’s pressure.
Center control: The Benko Gambit does not focus on direct central occupation by Black. Instead, Black concedes some central space to White but targets the queenside and uses piece activity to create counterplay. White typically controls the center with pawns, while Black applies pressure from the wings.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Benko Gambit Accepted, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 16 - Move #8 white
You can also discover how top players used Benko Gambit Accepted to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.