ECO code: B53
Opening Name: Sicilian, Chekhover Variation, 7.Nc3 Nf6 8.Bg5
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Qxd4 Nc6 5. Bb5 Bd7 6. Bxc6 Bxc6 7. Nc3 Nf6 8. Bg5
Description: The Chekhover Variation is an offbeat but aggressive line in the Sicilian Defense where White recaptures early with the queen on d4. After the natural developing moves, White’s 8.Bg5 pins Black’s knight on f6, aiming to increase pressure on the center and Black’s kingside. This move is characteristic for its intent to disturb Black’s development and create tactical opportunities by targeting the knight that supports the central and kingside squares.
Characteristic of 8.Bg5: The bishop move pins the f6-knight to the queen, limiting Black’s flexibility and preparing potential attacks on the center and kingside. It also supports central control indirectly by putting pressure on key defender pieces.
Playing Style: For White, 8.Bg5 is an attacking move, aiming to challenge Black’s setup and create active piece play. For Black, it requires a careful defensive response to neutralize White’s pressure and complete development safely.
Center Control: Yes, this opening and this move specifically focus on contesting and controlling the center. White’s early queen recapture and the pin with Bg5 are aimed at maintaining influence over central squares and restricting Black’s central counterplay.
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, Chekhover, 7.Nc3 Nf6 8.Bg5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #42 black