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.
Spanish: Morphy Defence
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6
The Morphy Defence is a classical and highly respected variation of the Ruy López (Spanish Opening). By playing 4...Nf6, Black immediately challenges White’s control of the center, especially targeting the e4 pawn, while preparing to castle quickly. This move is characteristic for its balance between development and counterattack, aiming for active piece play rather than passive defense.
From White’s perspective, this opening is generally attacking, as White maintains pressure on Black’s center and prepares for further central expansion. Black’s fourth move is somewhat defensive in that it protects key central squares, but it is also a preparatory move for counterattacking in the center and rapid development.
Regarding the center, both sides are actively involved: White controls the center with pawns and pieces, while Black contests it directly with ...Nf6 and often ...d6 or ...d5 later. Thus, the Morphy Defence does involve an attack on the center from both sides, making it a dynamic and strategic opening choice.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Spanish: Morphy Defence, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 55 - Move #7 white
You can also discover how top players used Spanish: Morphy Defence to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.