ECO code: D07
Queen's Gambit Declined: Chigorin Defense, Janowski Variation
The opening moves are: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 Nc6 3. Nc3 dxc4 4. Nf3. This variation arises when Black develops the knight to c6 early, challenging White's central control and aiming to apply immediate pressure on the d4 pawn.
Characteristic: The Chigorin Defense is known for its piece activity over pawn structure concerns. By playing ...Nc6 early, Black opts for dynamic piece play rather than the solid pawn chains typical in classical Queen's Gambit Declined lines.
Playing Style: From White's perspective, the move 4. Nf3 continues development and prepares to regain the pawn on c4, supporting a central and kingside presence. White's approach is generally attacking, focusing on central control and piece activity. Black's setup is more counter-attacking, seeking active piece play rather than a purely defensive stance.
Center Control: This opening directly contests the center. White aims to maintain and reclaim central space, while Black challenges it with active piece placement rather than a solid pawn center. Thus, the opening is very much about fighting for the center early on.
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 Queen's Gambit Declined: Chigorin Defense, Janowski Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 12 - Move #7 black