ECO code: B01
Opening Name: Scandinavian Defense: 2...Nf6 3.Nf3
Moves: 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Nf6 3. Nf3
Description: This line of the Scandinavian Defense features Black immediately challenging White's central pawn on d5 with the knight move 2...Nf6 instead of recapturing the pawn right away. White responds with 3.Nf3, developing a knight to support control over the center and preparing to challenge Black's knight on f6.
Characteristic: The key characteristic of 2...Nf6 is that Black delays recapturing the pawn on d5 to increase activity and put pressure on White’s center. This move also develops a piece early, aiming for quick counterplay. White’s 3.Nf3 is a natural developing move that reinforces central control and prepares to contest Black’s plan.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, 3.Nf3 is a balanced, somewhat flexible move that supports the center and can lead to both attacking or positional play depending on how the game continues. For Black, 2...Nf6 is more dynamic and can be considered an attacking or counterattacking move, seeking to challenge White’s center rather than simply defending.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. Black’s early knight move applies pressure on the d5 pawn square and indirectly attacks White’s central e4 pawn. White’s 3.Nf3 supports central control and prepares to maintain dominance in 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.Nf3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 60 - Move #6 black