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.
Queen's Gambit Accepted: Rosenthal Variation
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. Nf3 e6
FEN: rnbqkbnr/ppp2ppp/4p3/8/2pP4/5N2/PP2PPPP/RNBQKB1R w KQkq - 0 4
The Rosenthal Variation in the Queen's Gambit Accepted arises after Black accepts the gambit pawn on c4 and then supports the center with the move 3...e6. This move is characteristic because it prepares to recapture the pawn on c4 safely with the bishop while solidifying Black's central and light-square control.
From Black's perspective, this variation is somewhat defensive, aiming to maintain a solid pawn structure and avoid early weaknesses rather than launching an immediate counterattack. White, on the other hand, typically adopts a more attacking stance, focusing on rapid development and control of the center, especially the important d4 and e4 squares.
Regarding the center, the opening does involve contesting central control. While Black temporarily surrenders the d4 square by capturing on c4, the move e6 supports eventual central presence and prepares to challenge White’s center. White strives to dominate the center with pawns and pieces, making this an opening where central control is a key strategic theme.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Accepted: Rosenthal Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 10 - Move #6 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Accepted: Rosenthal Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.