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.
Opening Name: Caro-Kann Defense
Moves: 1. e4 c6
FEN: rnbqkbnr/pp1ppppp/2p5/8/4P3/8/PPPP1PPP/RNBQKBNR w KQkq - 0 2
The Caro-Kann Defense is characterized by Black's move 1...c6, preparing to challenge White's central pawn on e4 with ...d5 on the next move. This approach is solid and aims to establish a strong pawn structure without creating early weaknesses.
From Black's perspective, the Caro-Kann is primarily a defensive opening that focuses on a resilient and flexible position rather than immediate attacks. White, on the other hand, typically seeks to maintain central control and can adopt either attacking or positional plans depending on how the game unfolds.
Regarding the center, Black does contest it, but more patiently than in openings like the Sicilian or King's Pawn openings. The move ...c6 supports the ...d5 advance, directly challenging White's central pawn and helping Black to establish a foothold in the center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Caro-Kann Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1354 - Move #3 black
You can also discover how top players used Caro-Kann Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.