ECO code: D38
Opening Name: Queen's Gambit Declined: Ragozin Variation, 5.cxd5 exd5 6.Bg5
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. cxd5 exd5 6. Bg5
Description: The Ragozin Variation arises when Black develops the bishop to b4 early, combining ideas from the Queen's Gambit Declined and Nimzo-Indian Defense. After the exchange on d5, White plays 6.Bg5, pinning Black's knight on f6. This move is characteristic because it increases pressure on Black’s central control and kingside, aiming to undermine Black’s defenses and provoke weaknesses.
Characteristic of 6.Bg5: This pin on the knight is a thematic move in the Ragozin, targeting Black's control over the e5 square and preparing potential central or kingside action. It often leads to complex positional battles with chances for both sides.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, 6.Bg5 is an attacking move, aiming to exert pressure and create tension in the center and on Black’s kingside. Black’s setup is generally solid and somewhat defensive, focusing on maintaining a strong pawn structure and counterattacking opportunities.
Center Control: This opening does focus on the center. Both sides contest the central squares, with White challenging Black’s pawn on d5 and aiming to control e5, while Black maintains a solid pawn presence in the center. The pin with Bg5 indirectly supports this fight for central dominance.
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 exd5 6.Bg5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 6 - Move #6 black