ECO code: C06
Opening Name: French Defense: Tarrasch Variation, Closed, 8...f6 9.exf6, 11...O-O
Move Sequence: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5. Bd3 c5 6. c3 Nc6 7. Ne2 cxd4 8. cxd4 f6 9. exf6 Nxf6 10. O-O Bd6 11. Nf3 O-O
FEN: r1bq1rk1/pp4pp/2nbpn2/3p4/3P4/3B1N2/PP2NPPP/R1BQ1RK1 w - - 4 12
Characteristic of the move 8...f6: This move is a key thematic break in the Tarrasch Variation, challenging White’s strong pawn center by attacking the e5-pawn directly. It aims to undermine White’s space advantage and open lines for Black’s pieces, especially the light-squared bishop and knights.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this line is more dynamic and somewhat aggressive, as Black seeks counterplay against White’s center. For White, the setup is generally aimed at maintaining central control and can lead to both attacking chances and solid positional play depending on how the game unfolds.
Center Control: Yes, this opening heavily focuses on fighting for control of the center. White establishes a strong pawn center early, while Black uses moves like ...c5 and ...f6 to challenge and destabilize White’s central pawns, leading to a complex struggle for central dominance.
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: Tarrasch, Closed, 8...f6 9.exf6, 11...O-O, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #19 white