ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: 2...Nf6 3.Bb5+ Bd7
This line arises after 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Nf6 3. Bb5+ Bd7. Instead of the more common 2...Qxd5, Black develops the knight immediately, aiming to recapture the pawn on d5 with active piece play.
Characteristic: The early check by White with 3.Bb5+ forces Black to block the check with 3...Bd7, which slightly hinders Black's development by placing the dark-squared bishop on a less active square. This move order is somewhat rare and aims to challenge Black’s setup early.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, the check is an aggressive attempt to disrupt Black's natural development and gain a lead in development. Black’s 3...Bd7 is a defensive response to neutralize the check while preparing to recapture the pawn and maintain central tension. Overall, White is pressing for an initiative, while Black is focused on solidifying their position.
Center Control: This opening fights for control of the center indirectly. White has temporarily given up the center pawn but seeks to exploit Black’s slightly awkward piece placement. Black aims to regain the pawn and establish presence in the center with pieces rather than the queen early on.
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: 2...Nf6 3.Bb5+ Bd7, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 7 - Move #7 white