ECO code: C01
Opening Name: French Defense: Exchange Variation, 4.c4 Nf6
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. exd5 exd5 4. c4 Nf6
Description: In this line of the French Exchange Variation, White aims to challenge Black’s central pawn structure immediately with 4.c4, putting pressure on Black’s d5 pawn and trying to gain space in the center and on the queenside. Black responds with 4...Nf6, developing a knight to a natural square, attacking White’s d4 pawn, and preparing to castle quickly.
Characteristic of the Move 4...Nf6: This move is a flexible developing move that puts immediate pressure on White’s center, especially the d4 pawn. It signals Black’s intention to actively contest White’s central control rather than passively defending.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, 4.c4 is an attacking move aiming to undermine Black’s center and gain space. For Black, 4...Nf6 is also somewhat active and attacking, as it challenges White’s central pawns and prepares for quick development.
Center Control: This opening line is very much about contesting the center. White tries to build on central tension with c4, while Black’s knight move on f6 directly pressures White’s central pawns. Both sides fight for control and influence over the key central squares.
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 French: Exchange, 4.c4 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #7 black