ECO code: B03
Opening Name: Alekhine Defense: Exchange Variation, 5...cxd6 6.Nc3 g6 7.Be3
Moves: 1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. c4 Nb6 5. exd6 cxd6 6. Nc3 g6 7. Be3
Description: This line arises from the Alekhine Defense Exchange Variation, where Black accepts an early pawn exchange on d6 to challenge White’s center from a hypermodern stance. The move 5...cxd6 recaptures towards the center, maintaining pawn presence and opening lines for Black’s light-squared bishop. After 6.Nc3, White develops naturally, reinforcing central control and preparing for kingside activity.
The move 6...g6 signals Black’s intention to fianchetto the dark-squared bishop, aiming for solid kingside defense and pressure along the long diagonal. White’s 7.Be3 develops the bishop actively, supporting central pawns and preparing for potential queenside castling or a future kingside initiative.
Characteristic of 7.Be3: This move is characteristic for developing with a dual purpose—supporting the center while preparing for flexible middlegame plans including control of key squares and potential attacks on Black’s kingside.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is generally attacking, focusing on maintaining a strong and broad central presence and preparing for active piece play. Black’s setup with ...g6 is more defensive and hypermodern, aiming to undermine White’s center later while keeping a solid structure.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White establishes a broad pawn center with pawns on d4 and c4, while Black challenges it dynamically with piece pressure and timely pawn breaks.
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: Exchange, 5...cxd6 6.Nc3 g6 7.Be3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #44 white