ECO code: D20
Opening Name: Queen’s Gambit Accepted (QGA): 3.e4 Nc6 4.Nf3
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. e4 Nc6 4. Nf3
Description: This line in the Queen’s Gambit Accepted features White immediately challenging the center with 3.e4, aiming to regain the pawn and establish strong central control. Black’s 3...Nc6 develops a knight to pressure the center and support the c4 pawn. White’s 4.Nf3 continues rapid development, reinforcing control over the central squares and preparing to castle.
Characteristic of the Move 4.Nf3: The move 4.Nf3 is a natural developing move that supports the e4 pawn and controls the important d4 and e5 squares. It also prepares for safe king-side castling, contributing to White’s overall piece coordination and central dominance.
Attacking or Defensive: As White, this opening is attacking in nature, focusing on strong central presence and quick development to seize the initiative. Black’s setup is somewhat more defensive but aims to counterattack by challenging White’s center and holding onto the extra pawn temporarily.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly emphasizes control of the center. White’s 3.e4 and 4.Nf3 moves aim to build a dominant pawn center, while Black’s Nc6 exerts pressure on White’s central pawns and prepares to undermine White’s control.
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.e4 Nc6 4.Nf3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 15 - Move #5 black