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 Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 c5 5. cxd5
This opening arises after Black challenges White’s center with the move ...c5, aiming to put immediate pressure on White’s d4 pawn. By exchanging on d5, White clarifies the central tension early, often leading to an isolated or backward pawn structure for Black but granting Black active piece play in return.
Characteristic: The Semi-Tarrasch Defense is known for its dynamic balance between solid pawn structure and piece activity. Black accepts potential weaknesses in the pawn structure to gain more freedom for their pieces, particularly targeting central squares.
Playing Style: From White’s perspective, this opening is generally attacking, as White aims to exploit Black’s pawn structure and maintain central control. Black’s approach is more counterattacking, focusing on piece activity and challenging White’s center rather than purely defending.
Center Control: Yes, this opening centers heavily around fighting for control of the center. White initially occupies the center with pawns, and Black contests it actively with ...d5 and ...c5, leading to a dynamic struggle over central squares.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 9 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.