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: Semi-Tarrasch, 6.e4, 8.cxd4 Bb4+
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 c5 5. cxd5 Nxd5 6. e4 Nxc3 7. bxc3 cxd4 8. cxd4 Bb4+
FEN: rnbqk2r/pp3ppp/4p3/8/1b1PP3/5N2/P4PPP/R1BQKB1R w KQkq - 1 9
The Semi-Tarrasch Defense is a dynamic variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined where Black aims to challenge White's center with ...c5 and recapture on d4 actively. The move 8...Bb4+ is characteristic for putting immediate pressure on White’s position by checking and developing with tempo.
Characteristic of 8...Bb4+: This check forces White to respond and can disrupt White's natural development, often provoking White to block with the bishop or knight. It helps Black to accelerate piece activity and maintain tension in the center.
Attacking or Defensive: From Black’s perspective, this line is somewhat attacking as Black actively challenges White’s center and seeks piece activity. For White, the approach remains central and positional but with chances to solidify and expand in the center after dealing with the check.
Center Control: Yes, this opening is very much about control and contest of the center. White stakes a strong central presence with e4 and d4, while Black counters by timely exchanges and pressure with ...c5 and the check on b4.
You can also discover how top players used QGD: Semi-Tarrasch, 6.e4, 8.cxd4 Bb4+ to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.