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: Normal Variation, Traditional System
The opening moves are: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 dxc4 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. e3 e6.
This variation arises after Black accepts the Queen's Gambit with 2...dxc4 and then defends the extra pawn solidly by developing the knight to f6 and playing ...e6. White's move 4. e3 aims to recover the pawn on c4 smoothly while maintaining a strong pawn center.
Characteristic: Black's setup with ...Nf6 and ...e6 is very classical and solid, reinforcing control over the central squares and preparing to develop the light-squared bishop. White's plan is to recapture the pawn while preserving central tension and completing development.
Attacking or Defensive: White generally plays with an attacking mindset, aiming to control and challenge the center. Black's setup is more defensive and solid, focusing on stable development and counterplay rather than immediate confrontation.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White initially offers the c4-pawn to undermine Black's central d5-pawn, and both sides strive to maintain or regain control of the central squares, especially d4 and d5.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Accepted: Normal Variation, Traditional System, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #10 white
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Accepted: Normal Variation, Traditional System to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.