ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: 2...Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qa5 4.d4 c6 5.Bc4
This variation of the Scandinavian Defense arises after the moves 1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qa5 4.d4 c6 5.Bc4. Black recaptures the pawn early with the queen and then retreats it to a5 to maintain pressure and avoid immediate attacks.
Characteristic: The move 3...Qa5 is a hallmark of this line, aiming to keep the queen active while preventing White from easily gaining tempos. The subsequent ...c6 supports the center and prepares to develop the knight to d7. White’s 5.Bc4 is a natural developing move, targeting Black’s potentially weak f7 square and exerting pressure on the center.
Attacking or Defensive: White’s setup is primarily attacking, focusing on rapid development and control of key central squares, as well as putting pressure on Black’s kingside. Black’s play is more defensive at this stage, consolidating the center and preparing to complete development safely.
Center Control: This opening strongly attacks the center, especially from White’s perspective. White uses pawns on d4 and pieces like the knight on c3 and bishop on c4 to assert dominance in the center, while Black counters with ...c6 to bolster central control and limit White’s influence.
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...Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qa5 4.d4 c6 5.Bc4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #9 black