ECO code: B21
Opening Name: Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Declined, Dubois Variation
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. d4 cxd4 3. c3 d3 4. c4
Description: In this variation, Black declines the typical Smith-Morra Gambit recapture on c3 and instead pushes the pawn to d3, creating a strong advanced pawn that restricts White's central and queenside development. White responds with 4. c4, aiming to challenge Black’s advanced pawn and maintain central tension. This move seeks to undermine Black’s hold on the center and regain initiative in space.
Characteristic of the move 3...d3: This advance is a somewhat rare and aggressive way for Black to avoid immediate material loss by not capturing on c3. By pushing d3, Black tries to cramp White’s position and create counterplay, but it also allows White to target this advanced pawn and open lines quickly.
Nature of the position: From White’s perspective, this line remains attacking, focusing on regaining central control and opening lines for active piece play. Black’s move is more defensive and positional, aiming to hold onto the extra pawn and disrupt White’s typical Smith-Morra attacking plans.
Control of the center: White actively contests the center, trying to undermine Black’s pawn on d3 and assert presence with c4 and e4 pawns. Black’s d3 pawn is a central wedge, but White’s strategy is to challenge it promptly to regain dominance over 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 Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Declined, Dubois Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #10 white