ECO code: B31
Opening Name: Sicilian Defense: Rossolimo Variation, 3...g6 4.O-O Bg7 5.Re1 Nf6
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 g6 4. O-O Bg7 5. Re1 Nf6
Description: This line in the Rossolimo Variation of the Sicilian Defense features Black fianchettoing the bishop with ...g6 and ...Bg7, aiming for a solid and flexible kingside setup. By playing 3...g6, Black prepares to challenge White’s central control and increase pressure on the center and the long diagonal. White’s move 5.Re1 supports the central e4-pawn and prepares for potential central expansion, often with c3 and d4.
Characteristic of this move: The ...g6 and ...Bg7 setup is characteristic of the Accelerated Dragon structures within the Sicilian, blending Rossolimo’s early Bb5 pin with a hypermodern approach where Black contests the center from a distance.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, the setup is generally aimed at maintaining central control and preparing for a central break, so White plays actively but cautiously. Black’s moves are somewhat defensive initially, focusing on solid development and counterattacking chances later.
Center Control: This opening indirectly contests the center. Black does not occupy the center immediately with pawns but exerts pressure on it through pieces, especially the bishop on g7 and the knight on f6. White aims to establish and sometimes expand central presence with moves like c3 and d4.
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...g6 4.O-O Bg7 5.Re1 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #40 black