ECO code: D06
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Declined: Marshall Defence, 3.cxd5
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nf6 3. cxd5
FEN: rnbqkb1r/ppp1pppp/5n2/3P4/3P4/8/PP2PPPP/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 3
Description: The Marshall Defence is a less common variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined, characterized by Black's early development of the knight to f6 instead of immediately recapturing on d5. By playing 3.cxd5, White captures a central pawn, challenging Black's control of the center and opening lines for development.
Characteristic of this move: White’s 3.cxd5 is a direct attempt to claim central space and simplify the position by exchanging pawns early. It tests Black's setup and aims to exploit the fact that Black has not yet recaptured on d5.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this move is attacking in the sense that it challenges Black’s central presence and seeks to open the position for active play. For Black, the Marshall Defence is typically solid and somewhat defensive, focusing on piece development and maintaining a strong pawn structure rather than immediate counterattack.
Center Control: This opening sequence directly involves contesting the center. White’s 3.cxd5 strikes at Black’s central pawn on d5, aiming to gain material or positional advantage. Black’s setup with Nf6 supports control over the center squares, so both sides actively engage in the battle for central dominance.
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 QGD: Marshall Defence, 3.cxd5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 54 - Move #6 black