ECO code: A85
Opening Name: Dutch Defence: 2.c4 Nf6 3.Nc3 e6 4.Bg5
Moves: 1. d4 f5 2. c4 Nf6 3. Nc3 e6 4. Bg5
Description: This line in the Dutch Defence features White developing the bishop to g5 early, pinning Black’s knight on f6. The move 4.Bg5 is characteristic for applying immediate pressure on Black’s kingside and challenging Black’s control over the dark squares. It aims to provoke weaknesses or concessions in Black’s setup.
Characteristic of the Move: The bishop pin on the knight restricts Black’s kingside flexibility and can interfere with Black’s typical plans of solidifying the center and preparing e5. It’s a subtle, positional approach that seeks to limit Black’s piece coordination.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is primarily attacking, as it pressures Black’s position and looks to disrupt Black’s comfortable development. For Black, the Dutch Defence is generally aggressive and attacking, but here Black must be careful to neutralize White’s pin and counterattack.
Control of the Center: This opening does involve fighting for the center. White’s c4 and d4 pawns exert central influence, while Black’s f5 and e6 support a counterattack in the center and kingside. The move Bg5 adds indirect pressure on the center by targeting a knight that helps defend key central squares.
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 Dutch: 2.c4 Nf6 3.Nc3 e6 4.Bg5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #9 white