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.
Opening: Sicilian Defense, Taimanov Variation, 5.c4 Nf6 6.Nc3 Bb4 7.Nxc6 bxc6
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nc6 5. c4 Nf6 6. Nc3 Bb4 7. Nxc6 bxc6
Description: This variation of the Sicilian Taimanov features White expanding in the center and on the queenside with 5.c4, aiming to gain spatial control and restrict Black’s central counterplay. Black responds actively with ...Nf6 and ...Bb4, putting pressure on White’s knight and preparing to challenge White’s center. The exchange on c6 (7.Nxc6 bxc6) doubles Black’s pawns but opens the b-file and enhances Black’s control over the d5-square, providing dynamic counterplay opportunities.
Characteristic: The move 7.Nxc6 is a thematic exchange in the Taimanov that inflicts structural damage on Black’s pawn formation but grants Black open lines and control over central dark squares. It reflects a balance between positional concessions and dynamic potential.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is more positional and strategic, focusing on space and center control rather than immediate attacks. Black aims for active piece play and counterattacks, especially targeting the center and queenside. Overall, White presses for long-term positional advantages, while Black seeks counterplay.
Center Control: Yes, this opening emphasizes contesting the center. White’s c4 and d4 pawns seek to dominate central squares, while Black challenges this control with piece pressure and the potential ...d5 break to undermine White’s center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Sicilian: Taimanov, 5.c4 Nf6 6.Nc3 Bb4 7.Nxc6 bxc6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 black
You can also discover how top players used Sicilian: Taimanov, 5.c4 Nf6 6.Nc3 Bb4 7.Nxc6 bxc6 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.