ECO code: B03
Alekhine Defense: Exchange Variation
Moves: 1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. c4 Nb6 5. exd6
FEN: rnbqkb1r/ppp1pppp/1n1P4/8/2PP4/8/PP3PPP/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 5
The Exchange Variation in the Alekhine Defense arises after White captures Black's pawn on d6. This move challenges Black's central presence by opening the position early and aims to exploit Black's somewhat exposed knight on b6. The characteristic of this variation is that White quickly gains a strong pawn on d6, which can cramp Black's development and create long-term pressure.
From White's perspective, this variation is attacking, as White seizes space in the center and tries to restrict Black's counterplay. Black, on the other hand, adopts a more defensive posture, seeking to undermine White's advanced pawns and regain activity by careful piece maneuvering.
Regarding the center, this opening definitely targets and attacks the center. White's early d4 and c4 pawns, combined with the capture on d6, emphasize control and pressure on central squares, while Black tries to challenge White's central dominance indirectly.
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: Exchange Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #8 black