ECO code: D20
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Accepted (QGA): 3.e3 Nf6
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. e3 Nf6
Description: This variation of the Queen's Gambit Accepted features White playing 3.e3, aiming to quickly recapture the pawn on c4 while maintaining a solid pawn structure. Black responds with 3...Nf6, developing a knight to a natural square and preparing to challenge White's central presence and piece activity.
Characteristic of 3...Nf6: The move 3...Nf6 is a flexible developing move that supports Black's control over the central squares, especially e4, and prepares for kingside castling. It also keeps options open for Black to contest the center further or to develop the bishop to f5 or g4.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, this line is more positional and somewhat defensive, focusing on solid development and regaining the pawn rather than immediate attacks. Black's 3...Nf6 is a developing move that balances defense with potential counterplay, aiming to challenge White's center and piece coordination.
Center Control: This opening approach aims at controlling the center through pawn structure and piece placement rather than immediate central pawn breaks. White's 3.e3 supports the d4 pawn and prepares to recapture on c4, maintaining a sturdy central presence, while Black's knight on f6 contests central squares and contributes to central tension.
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 QGA: 3.e3 Nf6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 16 - Move #6 black