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: Marshall Attack
The Marshall Attack 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 O-O 8. c3 d5. In this sharp and highly tactical line, Black sacrifices a pawn early with 8...d5 to gain rapid development and strong central counterplay.
Characteristic of the move 8...d5: This pawn thrust is the hallmark of the Marshall Attack, representing a dynamic and aggressive attempt by Black to challenge White’s center immediately and open lines for active piece play, especially targeting White’s kingside.
Attacking or Defensive: Black plays very aggressively in the Marshall Attack, launching a direct assault on White’s center and king position. White typically adopts a cautious but resilient approach, aiming to neutralize Black’s initiative while maintaining material advantage.
Center Control: Yes, the Marshall Attack directly contests and attacks the center. Black’s pawn break with ...d5 challenges White’s e4 pawn and aims to dominate central squares, leading to open lines and tactical possibilities.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Marshall Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #46 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Marshall Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.