ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: Kádas Gambit
The Kádas Gambit arises after the moves 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Nf6 3. d4 c6 4. dxc6 e5. This line is a sharp and somewhat uncommon variation of the Scandinavian Defense, where Black immediately challenges White’s center and tries to regain the pawn with active piece play and central tension.
Characteristic: Black’s move 4...e5 is the hallmark of the Kádas Gambit. Instead of simply recapturing the pawn on c6, Black sacrifices material temporarily to accelerate development and open lines for the pieces, especially aiming to undermine White’s strong center.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this gambit is clearly attacking. Black seeks dynamic counterplay and rapid development rather than a purely defensive setup. White, meanwhile, must be cautious and precise, as the gambit puts immediate pressure on White’s center and coordination.
Center Control: The Kádas Gambit is centered around contesting and attacking the center. Black challenges White’s pawns directly and tries to destabilize White’s control over the center squares, making it a very active and confrontational opening choice.
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 Scandinavian Defense: Kádas Gambit, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #43 black