ECO code: B02
Alekhine: Scandinavian, Exchange
Moves: 1. e4 Nf6 2. Nc3 d5 3. exd5 Nxd5
Characteristic: This variation arises when Black challenges White’s center early with ...d5 and quickly recaptures on d5 with the knight after White exchanges pawns. It is a flexible line where Black develops actively but avoids early pawn tension in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this line is somewhat attacking because Black immediately contests the center and develops the knight actively to d5. White, on the other hand, plays more cautiously, maintaining a slight lead in development and central control.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. Black challenges White’s e4 pawn early with ...d5 and aims to exert pressure on the center squares, while White tries to maintain a foothold with Nc3 and potential central pawn pushes.
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: Scandinavian, Exchange, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 118 - Move #6 white