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 Declined: Exchange Variation, 5.Nf3 Nbd7
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. cxd5 exd5 5. Nf3 Nbd7
Description: This line arises from the Exchange Variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined. After White exchanges on d5 early, Black recaptures with the pawn, leading to a symmetrical pawn structure. The move 5...Nbd7 is a flexible developing move that supports the knight on f6 and prepares for potential central or queenside activity. It keeps options open for Black, such as ...c6 or ...Bd6, and avoids early commitments.
Characteristics: The move 5...Nbd7 is characteristic for its solid and patient approach. It reinforces control over the central squares, especially e5, and helps maintain a resilient defensive setup. This move aims to complete development while keeping the tension in the center.
Strategic Nature: For White, the position is slightly more geared towards a positional and sometimes subtle attacking game, focusing on exploiting the symmetrical pawn structure and potential minority attacks on Black's queenside. Black’s move 5...Nbd7 is primarily defensive, aiming to neutralize White’s central and queenside play while preparing for counterplay.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center, but the Exchange Variation often leads to a more balanced and symmetrical center. White does not launch an outright central attack immediately, and Black’s setup with ...Nbd7 supports solid central control rather than aggressive confrontation.
You can also discover how top players used QGD: Exchange, 5.Nf3 Nbd7 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.