ECO code: B01
Scandinavian Defense: Marshall Variation, 4.c4 Nb6 5.Nc3
This line arises after the moves 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Nf6 3. d4 Nxd5 4. c4 Nb6 5. Nc3. Here, White challenges Black’s knight on d5 early with the pawn thrust c4, gaining space in the center and aiming to undermine Black’s central presence.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is White’s immediate attempt to seize central space and push Black’s knight to a less active square on b6. White develops the knight to c3 to support the center and prepare for further central control.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this is an attacking approach, focusing on rapid development and central expansion. Black’s setup is more defensive, as the knight on b6 is somewhat passive and Black seeks solid development to counter White’s space advantage.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White’s moves c4 and Nc3 are aimed at dominating the central squares and restricting Black’s activity.
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: Marshall, 4.c4 Nb6 5.Nc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #9 black