ECO code: B03
Opening Name: Alekhine Defense: 3.d4 d6 4.exd6
Moves: 1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. exd6
Description: This line of the Alekhine Defense features White capturing the pawn on d6 early, challenging Black's central presence. By playing 4.exd6, White aims to open lines and exploit Black's temporarily vulnerable pawn structure. Black usually recaptures with the c-pawn, leading to an unbalanced pawn structure and dynamic play.
Characteristic: The move 4.exd6 is characteristic for its direct challenge to Black's central pawn on d6, forcing Black to react and often accept isolated or doubled pawns. It reflects White's intention to seize central space and open lines quickly.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is attacking by actively contesting the center and opening the position. For Black, the response is typically more defensive, aiming to consolidate and complete development while addressing structural weaknesses.
Center Control: The opening actively targets the center. White contests and tries to dominate the central squares, while Black aims to undermine White’s center from a distance, consistent with the hypermodern nature of the Alekhine Defense.
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: 3.d4 d6 4.exd6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #10 white