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: Closed is a classical and highly respected opening that 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 d6 8. c3 O-O 9. h3.
The characteristic of this position is White’s preparation for central expansion and control, combined with a solid kingside setup. The move 9. h3 prevents Black’s knight or bishop from pinning or invading the g4-square, giving White more flexibility in central and kingside operations.
From White’s perspective, this is a balanced but slightly attacking setup, aiming to build pressure on Black’s center and kingside over time. Black plays a more defensive and solid game, focusing on maintaining a strong pawn structure and countering White’s plans.
This opening definitely involves a fight for the center. White’s moves like c3 and Re1 support a potential d4 push, aiming to challenge Black’s central pawns. Black supports the center with moves like ...d6 and ...e5, setting up a tense strategic battle.
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.