ECO code: D06
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Declined: Marshall Defence, 3.cxd5 Nxd5 4.e4
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nf6 3. cxd5 Nxd5 4. e4
Description: This variation arises in the Queen's Gambit Declined when Black responds with the Marshall Defence by recapturing on d5 with the knight. White immediately challenges Black's knight on d5 by playing 4.e4, pushing a strong pawn to the center. This move aims to gain space and control over the center, forcing Black's knight to move again.
Characteristic: The move 4.e4 is characteristic for asserting White’s dominance in the center early on. It reflects White’s intention to seize space and restrict Black’s piece activity, making it a dynamic and ambitious approach.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this is an attacking and space-gaining move, aiming to challenge Black's setup aggressively. For Black, it is somewhat defensive at this stage, as Black’s knight is pressured and Black must find a good square while avoiding loss of central control.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly targets the center. White’s 4.e4 move directly attacks Black’s knight and occupies central squares, exemplifying White’s strategy to dominate the center early in the game.
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 Nxd5 4.e4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 32 - Move #6 black