ECO code: B30
Opening Name: Sicilian Defense: Rossolimo Variation, 3...Qb6
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Qb6
The move 3...Qb6 in the Rossolimo Variation is a somewhat rare and sharp response by Black. By attacking the bishop on b5 and simultaneously putting pressure on the b2 pawn, Black aims to challenge White's queenside presence early. This move is characteristic for its aggressive intent to unsettle White’s setup and provoke weaknesses.
From Black’s perspective, this is an attacking move, seeking active counterplay rather than passive defense. White, meanwhile, must respond carefully to maintain central control and piece development. The move indirectly contests the center by pressuring White’s queenside structure, but it does not directly occupy or attack the central squares immediately.
Overall, this opening line leads to complex play where both sides vie for control, but White retains a slight edge in central influence due to the early e4 pawn and active knight on f3.
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: Rossolimo, 3...Qb6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #5 black