ECO code: B03
Alekhine Defense: Exchange Variation, 5...exd6
The line begins with 1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. c4 Nb6 5. exd6 exd6, where Black recaptures on d6 with the pawn. This move helps Black to maintain a solid pawn structure in the center while opening lines for the light-squared bishop.
Characteristic: The move 5...exd6 is a standard and natural recapture in the Exchange Variation of the Alekhine Defense. It avoids structural weaknesses and keeps the center flexible, allowing Black to develop harmoniously.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black's perspective, this is a somewhat defensive move aimed at stabilizing the position after White's aggressive central expansion. For White, the position remains dynamic with chances to continue pressing in the center and on the queenside.
Center Control: This opening focuses heavily on the fight for the center. White initially gains space with pawns on e5 and d4, but Black challenges this by undermining White’s center and counterattacking with pieces and pawns. The move 5...exd6 helps Black to contest central squares and maintain presence in the center.
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...exd6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 black