ECO code: B21
Opening Name: Sicilian: Smith-Morra Gambit Accepted
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. d4 cxd4 3. c3 dxc3
Description: The Smith-Morra Gambit is an aggressive variation against the Sicilian Defense where White sacrifices a pawn early with 3. c3 to gain rapid development and open lines. After Black accepts the gambit by capturing on c3, White aims to dominate the center and launch a quick initiative against Black’s position.
Characteristic: This gambit is characterized by White offering a pawn to accelerate piece activity and control over the center squares, especially d4 and e5.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, the Smith-Morra Gambit is decidedly attacking, seeking active piece play and pressure on Black’s position. Black, by accepting the gambit, adopts a more defensive stance and must be precise to neutralize White’s initiative.
Center Control: Yes, this opening is focused on attacking the center. White contests the central squares immediately and uses the open lines created by the gambit to apply pressure.
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: Smith-Morra Accepted, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 104 - Move #6 black