ECO code: D38
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Declined: Ragozin Variation, 5.cxd5
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. cxd5
FEN: rnbqk2r/ppp2ppp/4pn2/3P4/1b1P4/2N2N2/PP2PPPP/R1BQKB1R b KQkq - 0 5
The move 5.cxd5 in the Ragozin Variation is a characteristic thrust from White aimed at challenging Black's central presence immediately. By exchanging the c-pawn for Black's d5-pawn, White seeks to clarify the central tension and potentially gain a slight spatial advantage in the center.
This move is somewhat attacking in nature for White, as it opens lines and invites active piece play, while Black must respond carefully to recapture and maintain balance. Black’s reply often involves recapturing with the knight or pawn, leading to dynamic play.
The opening strongly focuses on the center. White's cxd5 challenges Black's central pawn and aims to influence the central squares directly, which is a hallmark of the Queen's Gambit Declined structures. Control and tension in the center are key themes for both sides in this line.
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.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the QGD: Ragozin, 5.cxd5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #9 black