ECO code: C35
King's Gambit Accepted: Cunningham Defense
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. f4 exf4 3. Nf3 Be7
This line arises after Black accepts the King's Gambit pawn on f4 and then plays 3...Be7, known as the Cunningham Defense. The key idea behind Black's third move is to prepare to challenge White's initiative by developing the bishop to a safe square and often planning to support a quick ...d5 break or to castle kingside promptly. Unlike more common responses like 3...g5, this move is somewhat reserved and aims to solidify Black's position before counterattacking.
Characteristic of this move: The bishop move to e7 is somewhat flexible and less committal than other defenses. It avoids immediate weakening of the kingside pawns and keeps options open for Black’s central and kingside play.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, the Cunningham Defense is primarily defensive in nature, focusing on consolidating the extra pawn and preparing counterplay. White, on the other hand, maintains attacking chances by rapid development and control of open lines, typical of the King's Gambit.
Center Control: This opening does not immediately contest the center with pawns after 3...Be7, but White's early e4 and Nf3 provide good central influence. Black usually aims to challenge the center soon with moves like ...d5 later in the game.
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 King's Gambit Accepted: Cunningham Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 36 - Move #6 black