ECO code: B31
Sicilian Defense: Nyezhmetdinov-Rossolimo Attack, Fianchetto Variation
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 g6
This variation arises when Black fianchettos the dark-squared bishop with ...g6 against the Rossolimo Attack. The characteristic move ...g6 aims to control the long diagonal and strengthen Black's kingside, preparing to develop the bishop to g7. White's Bb5 puts immediate pressure on Black's knight on c6, seeking to undermine Black's control of the center.
From White's perspective, this line is generally more positional and flexible, focusing on restricting Black's central influence and piece activity rather than launching an immediate attack. Black adopts a hypermodern setup, indirectly contesting the center with the fianchettoed bishop rather than occupying it directly.
Overall, White challenges Black's central control by pinning and targeting the c6 knight, while Black aims for a solid, resilient position with counterplay along the long diagonal and potential breaks later. Thus, the opening has a mixed character: White is somewhat attacking by putting pressure on Black's key defender (Nc6), but both sides play cautiously around the center rather than launching direct assaults early on.
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: Nyezhmetdinov-Rossolimo Attack, Fianchetto Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #5 white
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