ECO code: B02
Alekhine Defense: Scandinavian Variation, Geschev Gambit
The opening begins with the moves 1. e4 Nf6 2. Nc3 d5 3. exd5 c6. This line is a hybrid between the Alekhine Defense and the Scandinavian Defense, where Black immediately challenges White’s center with ...d5 and then offers a pawn gambit with ...c6.
Characteristic: The move 3...c6 is a gambit that aims to quickly undermine White’s central pawn on d5 and accelerate Black’s development. It is a dynamic and somewhat unorthodox approach, inviting White to accept the pawn but giving Black active piece play in return.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, this variation is attacking and provocative, as it challenges White’s center early and seeks counterplay rather than a purely solid setup. White, on the other hand, can play either cautiously or aggressively, depending on whether they accept the gambit and how they develop their pieces.
Center Control: This opening directly contests the center. Black challenges White’s e4 and d5 pawns quickly, aiming to destabilize White’s central control and create immediate tension. White’s decision to capture on d5 and how they respond to ...c6 will shape the central battle.
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 Alekhine Defense: Scandinavian Variation, Geschev Gambit, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #7 white