ECO code: C88
Ruy Lopez: Closed, Trajkovic Counterattack
The Trajkovic Counterattack arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 Bb7. This variation is a less common but interesting choice for Black in the Closed Ruy Lopez.
Characteristic: Black’s move 7...Bb7 aims to exert pressure along the long diagonal, supporting the central and queenside pawns. This setup often prepares ...d6 and sometimes ...Na5 to challenge White’s bishop on b3. The position is flexible for Black, allowing counterplay against White’s center.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this line is somewhat counterattacking, seeking active piece play to challenge White's center and piece placement. White generally maintains a slight initiative, focusing on central control and kingside development, so White’s play remains more attacking.
Center Control: This opening definitely involves a fight for the center. White has a strong pawn on e4, and Black contests the center indirectly through piece pressure and timely pawn breaks (like ...d5). The Trajkovic Counterattack aims to undermine White’s central presence rather than ignoring it.
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 Ruy Lopez: Closed, Trajkovic Counterattack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #16 white