ECO code: D15
Slav: Geller Gambit arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 dxc4 5. e4 b5. This gambit is a sharp variation within the Slav Defense where Black immediately challenges White’s strong center and attempts to hold on to the extra pawn on c4 by supporting it with ...b5.
Characteristic of the move ...b5: Black's 5...b5 is a bold pawn thrust aimed at defending the c4-pawn and grabbing space on the queenside. It is somewhat risky as it weakens Black’s queenside structure but tries to keep material advantage and disrupt White’s central control.
Attacking or defensive nature: For Black, the Geller Gambit is an attacking and dynamic choice, seeking counterplay rather than passive defense. For White, the response is generally to counterattack the center and exploit Black’s somewhat loose queenside pawns.
Center control: This opening is very much about the fight for the center. White aims to build a strong pawn center with moves like e4, while Black contests it indirectly by holding the c4 pawn and preparing to undermine White’s center from the flank.
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: Geller Gambit, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #13 black