ECO code: B02
Alekhine: Scandinavian, Exchange begins with the moves 1. e4 Nf6 2. Nc3 d5 3. exd5. This line arises when Black challenges White’s center early with ...d5, and White captures the pawn on d5, exchanging in the center.
Characteristic: This variation is characterized by Black’s provocative early knight move to f6 (the Alekhine Defense idea) combined with an immediate central counterattack ...d5, typical of the Scandinavian Defense. White’s third move, exchanging on d5, simplifies the center and aims to gain a slight lead in development.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this line is generally attacking in nature, since White maintains a lead in central space and development after the exchange. Black’s play is more counterattacking, looking to challenge White’s center from a solid but somewhat flexible setup.
Control of the Center: The opening directly contests the center: Black immediately strikes at White’s e4 pawn with ...d5, and White responds by exchanging to maintain presence in the center. Overall, the opening leads to dynamic central tension, with both sides actively fighting for central control.
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 135 - Move #6 white