ECO code: C90
Opening Name: Ruy Lopez: Closed
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. c3 O-O
FEN: r1bq1rk1/2p1bppp/p1np1n2/1p2p3/4P3/1BP2N2/PP1P1PPP/RNBQR1K1 w - - 1 9
The Ruy Lopez: Closed is a classical and highly strategic opening characterized by White’s early bishop move to b5, targeting Black’s knight on c6 and indirectly putting pressure on Black’s center. The move 8. c3 is characteristic here, preparing to support the center with d4 and giving White a strong pawn presence in the center.
From White’s perspective, this opening is primarily attacking, aiming to control and build a strong center with pawns on e4 and d4, while also preparing for kingside activity. Black plays a solid and somewhat defensive setup, aiming to counterattack later by challenging White’s center and piece placement.
Both sides contest the center: White directly attacks the center with pawns and pieces, especially preparing the d4 push, while Black defends the center with moves like ...d6 and looks to undermine White’s center at the right moment.
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, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #30 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Closed to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.