ECO code: B23
Opening Name: Sicilian: Closed
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 g6
Description: The Closed Sicilian arises after 1.e4 c5 2.Nc3, with Black choosing to fianchetto the kingside bishop by playing 2...g6. This setup is characteristic for Black’s intention to control the dark squares, especially the long diagonal, and prepare a solid but flexible kingside defense.
Characteristic of 2...g6: The move 2...g6 signals Black’s plan to fianchetto the bishop to g7, aiming for a hypermodern control over the center rather than immediate occupation. Black allows White to build a classical pawn center while preparing to undermine it later.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this opening is generally attacking, as White often tries to build a strong central and kingside presence, leveraging the space advantage. Black’s approach is more defensive and counterattacking, focusing on solid development and counterplay from the fianchettoed bishop.
Center Control: White aims to control and occupy the center early with pawns and pieces, while Black adopts a hypermodern strategy by controlling the center from a distance with the bishop on g7 and waiting for opportunities to challenge White’s center later.
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: Closed, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 17 - Move #6 white