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.
Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6
The Morphy Defense is a classical and very popular variation of the Ruy Lopez opening. Black’s move 3...a6 immediately challenges White’s bishop, asking it to decide whether to retreat, exchange, or maintain pressure on the knight at c6.
Characteristic: The move a6 is a prophylactic and preparatory move. It prevents White’s bishop from pinning the knight on c6 indefinitely, and it also prepares for Black’s potential ...b5 expansion on the queenside.
Attacking or Defensive: As Black, this move is primarily defensive but also has an aggressive undertone by gaining space on the queenside and preparing counterplay. For White, this opening is generally considered an attacking system, focusing on central control and piece development.
Center Control: The Ruy Lopez, including the Morphy Defense, is fundamentally about fighting for control of the center. White aims to establish a strong presence in the center with pawns and pieces, while Black counters by challenging White’s center and seeking dynamic piece play.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 198 - Move #5 black
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Morphy Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.