ECO code: D10
Slav: Winawer Countergambit, 4.cxd5 cxd5 5.dxe5
This line arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nc3 e5 4. cxd5 cxd5 5. dxe5. Black's early ...e5 is a sharp counterstrike in the Slav Defense, challenging White's control of the center immediately.
Characteristic: The key feature of this variation is Black's countergambit with ...e5, offering a pawn to quickly open lines and activate pieces. By capturing on e5, White accepts this gambit, aiming to maintain a material advantage while Black seeks rapid development and central counterplay.
Playing style: For White, this line is somewhat attacking, as White tries to hold onto the extra pawn and consolidate a central presence. Black, on the other hand, adopts an aggressive counterattacking approach, aiming to undermine White's center and generate active piece play.
Center control: The opening definitely focuses on contesting the center. Both sides fight actively for central dominance—White by capturing on e5 and holding the pawn, and Black by challenging the center early with ...e5 to gain dynamic chances.
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 cxd5 5.dxe5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 3 - Move #8 white