ECO code: C05
French Defense: Tarrasch Variation, Closed Variation
This variation arises after the moves 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5. Bd3 c5 6. c3 Nc6. It is a key line in the Tarrasch Variation of the French Defense where White pushes the e-pawn to e5, gaining space and cramping Black's position.
The characteristic of this setup is White's strong pawn chain on d4 and e5, which restricts Black's pieces, especially the knight on d7 and the light-squared bishop. Black challenges the center immediately with ...c5 and develops actively with ...Nc6, aiming to undermine White’s center and create counterplay.
From White's perspective, this variation is primarily attacking, as White tries to maintain space and control in the center, preparing for a kingside initiative. Black's approach is more counter-attacking/defensive, focusing on breaking down White’s center and exploiting the backward d4-pawn.
Both sides contest the center vigorously: White occupies it with pawns on d4 and e5, while Black attacks it with moves like ...c5 and ...Nc6 to challenge and eventually undermine White's stronghold.
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 Defense: Tarrasch Variation, Closed Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 8 - Move #12 black