ECO code: D10
Slav: Winawer Countergambit, 4.cxd5
This variation arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 e5 4. cxd5. Black’s early ...e5 is a provocative counterstrike in the Slav Defense, aiming to challenge White’s center immediately rather than the more traditional ...dxc4.
Characteristic: The move 4.cxd5 captures the pawn on d5, accepting the challenge and opening the position early. White tries to exploit Black’s somewhat committal ...e5 by increasing central tension and aiming for active piece play.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this move is generally attacking, seeking to open lines and take advantage of Black’s early pawn thrust. Black’s ...e5 signals aggressive intentions, making this countergambit a sharp and tactical battle for the initiative.
Center Control: The opening is very much about fighting for the center. White’s 4.cxd5 challenges Black’s pawn on d5, while Black’s ...e5 attempts to undermine White’s central presence. Both sides contest central squares actively from the outset.
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: Winawer Countergambit, 4.cxd5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #8 white