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.
French Defense: Tarrasch Variation, Closed Variation
The opening moves are 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 Nf6. Here, White develops the knight to d2 instead of the more common Nf3, aiming to support the central pawn on e4 without blocking the c-pawn, which can later support c4 or provide flexibility in development.
Characteristic of the move 3...Nf6: Black challenges White's center immediately by attacking the e4 pawn, encouraging central tension early on. This move is a natural developing move that prepares for kingside castling and contests control of the center.
From White's perspective, this line is somewhat attacking, as White maintains a strong pawn center and looks to leverage it for space and activity. Black's move is more defensive and counter-attacking, aiming to undermine White's center and create counterplay.
Regarding control of the center, this variation is very much about attacking and contesting the center. White builds a strong pawn presence in the center, while Black immediately challenges it with pieces and pawn breaks. The tension in the center is a key theme throughout the Tarrasch Variation.
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 24 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used French Defense: Tarrasch Variation, Closed Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.