ECO code: C96
Opening Name: Ruy Lopez: Closed, Chigorin Defense
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 Na5 10. Bc2 c5
The Chigorin Defense in the Closed Ruy Lopez is characterized by Black's early ...Na5 move, aiming to challenge White’s bishop on b3 and exert pressure on the center and queenside. The move 10...c5 further supports this strategy by striking at White’s central control, especially targeting the d4 square.
Characteristic of the Move 10...c5: This pawn thrust is a thematic break in many Ruy Lopez lines, aiming to undermine White's center and gain space on the queenside. It signals Black's intention to actively contest the center rather than passively defend.
Playing Style: From Black's perspective, this line is dynamic and somewhat aggressive, seeking counterplay against White’s center and active piece placement. White, on the other hand, continues with a positional and attacking approach, focusing on central control and piece activity.
Center Control: Both sides actively fight for the center in this opening. White establishes a strong pawn center with e4 and c3, while Black challenges it with moves like ...d6 and ...c5, aiming to undermine and counterattack. Thus, this opening definitely involves a central struggle.
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, Chigorin Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #36 black