ECO code: D10
Slav Defense
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6
The Slav Defense is a solid and popular response to the Queen's Gambit. By playing ...c6, Black supports the d5 pawn, aiming to maintain a strong and stable presence in the center without immediately exchanging pawns. This move is characteristic for its emphasis on a robust pawn structure and flexibility in development.
From Black's perspective, the Slav Defense is primarily defensive, focusing on maintaining a strong foothold in the center while avoiding early weaknesses. White, on the other hand, typically adopts a more attacking stance, trying to challenge Black's setup and gain space.
Regarding control of the center, both sides contest it actively: White occupies the center with pawns on d4 and c4, while Black reinforces the d5 pawn with c6, aiming for a solid and resilient central position.
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 Slav Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 299 - Move #5 white
You can also discover how top players used Slav Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.