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: Normal Variation
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. e3
Description: In this variation of the Queen's Gambit Accepted, White develops the knight to f3 and supports the center with the move e3. The move e3 aims to recapture the pawn on c4 safely while maintaining a strong pawn structure. This move is characteristic for its solid and flexible approach, allowing White to regain the pawn without compromising development or central control.
Characteristics: The move 4. e3 is primarily a positional and defensive choice for White, focusing on solid development and preparing to recapture the pawn on c4. It does not launch an immediate attack but reinforces central presence and piece activity.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation is generally defensive and positional, aiming to maintain a stable center and harmonious development. Black, having accepted the gambit pawn, often aims for counterplay but must be careful to complete development and challenge White’s central control.
Center Control: Yes, this opening variation involves direct contest over the center. White’s d4 pawn and the move e3 support central dark squares, while Black’s early capture challenges White’s center. Both sides vie for central influence, but White’s setup with e3 helps restore central balance.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Accepted: Normal Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #7 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Accepted: Normal Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.