ECO code: B34
Opening Name: Sicilian: Accelerated Fianchetto, Modern, 6.Be3 Nf6 7.Nxc6 bxc6
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 g6 5. Nc3 Bg7 6. Be3 Nf6 7. Nxc6 bxc6
Description: This variation of the Accelerated Dragon sees White develop actively with Be3, aiming to support a strong central and queenside presence. The move 7.Nxc6 exchanges a knight for Black’s knight on c6, doubling Black’s pawns after 7...bxc6. This structural change gives Black the bishop pair and open b-file but also weakens Black’s pawn structure slightly.
Characteristic: The exchange on c6 is characteristic for challenging Black’s typical Sicilian pawn structure early, aiming to limit Black’s central counterplay and create targets on the c6 and d6 squares. It’s a way for White to steer the game into more positional and strategic channels rather than sharp tactical battles.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is generally attacking, as White seeks to control the center and build pressure on Black’s somewhat compromised pawn structure. Black’s setup is more defensive and flexible, focusing on fianchettoing the bishop and counterattacking later with the bishop pair and dynamic pawn breaks.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly contests the center. White maintains a strong central presence with pawns and pieces, while Black aims to counterattack the center later, often with ...d5 or ...e5 breaks. The doubled c-pawns for Black mean White can target the center and queenside more confidently.
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: Accelerated Fianchetto, Modern, 6.Be3 Nf6 7.Nxc6 bxc6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #25 black