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.
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Accepted (QGA): Mannheim Variation, 4...c6, 5.Qxc4 Bf5
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Qa4+ c6 5. Qxc4 Bf5
Description: In this line of the Queen’s Gambit Accepted, Black responds to White’s check on a4 with 4...c6, supporting the center and preparing to solidify the pawn structure. After White recaptures the pawn with 5.Qxc4, Black develops the bishop actively to f5. This move is characteristic of the Mannheim Variation, aiming to develop the light-squared bishop outside the pawn chain before playing ...e6, thus avoiding a passive setup.
Characteristic of the Move 5...Bf5: This bishop development challenges White's control of the center and prepares for quick development and kingside safety. It is a proactive, developing move that helps Black maintain good piece activity.
Attacking or Defensive: For Black, the move 5...Bf5 is attacking in nature as it puts pressure on White’s center and development. White, on the other hand, maintains a slight initiative due to space and central control but must be mindful of Black’s active piece play.
Center Control: This opening line leads to a dynamic fight for the center. White aims to dominate the center with pawns and pieces, while Black uses moves like ...c6 and ...Bf5 to contest and challenge White's control. Thus, it is very much a contest for the center rather than a purely positional or flank-focused opening.
You can also discover how top players used QGA: Mannheim, 4...c6, 5.Qxc4 Bf5 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.