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.
Slav Defense: Czech Variation, Krause Attack arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 dxc4 5. a4 Bf5 6. Ne5.
This variation is characterized by Black's early capture of the c4-pawn and White's immediate challenge to Black's bishop with the knight move to e5. The move 6. Ne5 is a key attacking idea by White, aiming to put pressure on Black's bishop and control important central squares.
From White's perspective, this line is aggressive and attacking, seeking active piece play and rapid development. Black, on the other hand, adopts a solid but somewhat defensive stance, aiming to hold onto the extra pawn while developing harmoniously.
Regarding the center, this opening does not involve a direct confrontation for the central pawns immediately, but both sides influence the center indirectly. White's knight on e5 exerts central control, while Black’s setup aims to maintain a stable pawn structure without immediate central tension.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Slav Defense: Czech Variation, Krause Attack, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #48 white
You can also discover how top players used Slav Defense: Czech Variation, Krause Attack to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.