ECO code: B12
Caro-Kann Defense: Advance Variation, Van der Wiel Attack
The Van der Wiel Attack arises after the moves 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 Bf5 4. Nc3. In this line, White develops the knight to c3 early, supporting the center and preparing to challenge Black’s setup.
Characteristic of this move: By playing 4. Nc3, White increases control over the central squares, particularly d5, and supports the advanced e5 pawn. This move also prepares for potential future pressure against Black’s bishop on f5 and central tension.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this is an attacking approach aiming to maintain a strong pawn center and restrict Black’s counterplay. Black remains solid but must be cautious as White’s setup can lead to aggressive central and kingside operations.
Center Control: This opening line strongly attacks and controls the center. White’s e5 pawn and knight on c3 work together to dominate key central squares, while Black tries to undermine this center with 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 Caro-Kann Defense: Advance Variation, Van der Wiel Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 20 - Move #7 white