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.
Benoni Defense: Modern Variation
The Benoni Defense: Modern Variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6. Black challenges White’s center by immediately striking at the d5-pawn with ...c5 and preparing ...e6 to undermine White’s advanced d5-pawn. This variation is known for its dynamic pawn structure and asymmetrical play.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of this move order is Black’s willingness to accept a somewhat cramped position in exchange for active piece play and counterattacking chances against White’s strong center.
Attacking or Defensive: As Black, this opening is generally considered counterattacking. Black does not try to occupy the center directly but instead aims to challenge and undermine White’s center from the flank. White, on the other hand, usually tries to maintain and expand the central space, playing a more attacking role.
Center Control: White holds a strong pawn on d5, controlling a significant portion of the center. Black contests the center indirectly by targeting the d5-pawn with ...c5 and ...e6, rather than occupying the center with pawns initially. Thus, the opening focuses on challenging the center rather than outright occupying it from the start.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Benoni Defense: Modern Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 17 - Move #7 white
You can also discover how top players used Benoni Defense: Modern Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.