ECO code: B01
Opening Name: Scandinavian Defense: Marshall Variation, 4.c4 Nb6 5.Nf3 g6 6.Nc3
Moves: 1. e4 d5 2. exd5 Nf6 3. d4 Nxd5 4. c4 Nb6 5. Nf3 g6 6. Nc3
Description: This line of the Scandinavian Defense, known as the Marshall Variation, features an early challenge to Black's knight on d5 with 4.c4. White aims to gain spatial control in the center and on the queenside by pushing the c-pawn. Black retreats the knight to b6 and fianchettoes the dark-squared bishop with ...g6, preparing a solid but flexible kingside setup.
Characteristic: The move 4.c4 is characteristic of White's attempt to undermine Black's knight and expand in the center and queenside. Black's ...g6 and ...Nb6 setup is aimed at solid development and controlling key central and dark squares via the bishop on g7.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this position is generally considered attacking, focusing on spatial advantage and central pressure, seeking to restrict Black's piece activity. Black’s setup is more defensive and positional, aiming for solid development and counterplay along the long diagonal and central squares.
Center Control: White aggressively contests the center with pawns on d4 and c4, directly challenging Black's presence. Black counters by developing pieces actively and maintaining a flexible pawn structure without immediate central pawn tension.
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.Nf3 g6 6.Nc3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #15 black