ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: 2...Qxd5 3.d4 Nf6
This variation of the Scandinavian Defense arises after the moves 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Qxd5 3. d4 Nf6. Black quickly recaptures the pawn on d5 with the queen but then develops the knight to f6, aiming to challenge White’s central control and prepare for rapid development.
Characteristic: By playing 3...Nf6, Black puts immediate pressure on White's center and encourages White to defend or expand it carefully. This move also helps Black avoid early queen harassment by preparing to support the queen and castle safely.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this is a somewhat balanced approach—Black is actively contesting the center while also developing pieces to solidify their position. For White, the opening is more about asserting central control and gaining space, which is an attacking stance in the center.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White aims to maintain and build a strong pawn presence there with d4, while Black challenges it with active piece play and the queen’s early involvement.
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.d4 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #5 black