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: Semi-Slav: Moscow, 6.Bh4 Gambit Accepted
Moves: 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 c6 5. Bg5 h6 6. Bh4 dxc4
Description: This line arises in the Semi-Slav Defense, specifically the Moscow Variation, where Black accepts the gambit pawn by capturing on c4. The move 6...dxc4 is characteristic of Black grabbing the pawn to challenge White’s central control and seek counterplay on the queenside. White’s bishop retreat to h4 maintains pressure on Black’s knight on f6 and keeps an attacking stance.
Characteristic of the Move 6...dxc4: This capture is a thematic moment in the Semi-Slav where Black temporarily wins the c4-pawn but must be cautious, as White gains rapid development and attacking chances, especially targeting the center and kingside. It signals Black’s readiness to enter sharp, tactical play rather than a purely positional struggle.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this line is attacking, as White aims to exploit the lead in development and pressure Black’s center and kingside. Black’s approach is more counterattacking/defensive, seeking to hold onto the extra pawn and neutralize White’s initiative.
Center Control: This opening definitely involves a fight over the center. White initially stakes out strong central control with pawns on d4 and c4, while Black challenges this with moves like c6 and d5. By accepting the gambit pawn on c4, Black temporarily surrenders some central presence but looks to undermine White’s center soon after.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Semi-Slav: Moscow, 6.Bh4 Gambit Accepted, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #16 black
You can also discover how top players used Semi-Slav: Moscow, 6.Bh4 Gambit Accepted to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.