ECO code: B03
Alekhine Defense
Moves: 1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4
The Alekhine Defense is characterized by Black's provocative knight move to f6 on the first move, immediately challenging White's central pawn on e4. By allowing White to advance pawns to e5 and d4, Black aims to undermine and attack White's extended center later in the game.
From White's perspective, this opening is attacking, as White gains central space and tries to maintain their pawn center. Black's play is more defensive and counter-attacking, seeking to pressure and eventually dismantle White's advanced pawns.
Yes, this opening directly involves the center. White aggressively occupies the center with pawns, while Black challenges this dominance with piece pressure and counterplay.
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, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 49 - Move #6 black