ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: 2...Nf6 3.Bc4
The Scandinavian Defense begins with 1.e4 d5, challenging White's central pawn immediately. After 2.exd5 Nf6, Black develops the knight early to recapture the pawn quickly and put pressure on White's center. White's third move, 3.Bc4, is an aggressive and somewhat less common continuation that aims to put immediate pressure on Black's vulnerable f7-square, targeting the weakest point in Black's position early on.
Characteristic of 3.Bc4: This move is characteristic for its direct and tactical approach. By developing the bishop to c4 instead of the usual moves like d4 or Nf3, White focuses on rapid piece activity and potential threats against Black's king position, putting Black on the back foot.
Attacking or Defensive? For White, 3.Bc4 is an attacking move, seeking active piece play and early initiative. For Black, the position requires careful defense to neutralize White's threats while completing development.
Center Control: Although White has temporarily given up controlling the center with pawns, the move 3.Bc4 helps exert pressure on Black's position and supports potential central advances later, so it can be seen as an indirect way to challenge the center.
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.Bc4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 19 - Move #5 white