ECO code: D91
Opening Name: Gruenfeld Defense: 5.Bg5 Ne4 6.cxd5 Nxg5 7.Nxg5 e6
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 d5 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Bg5 Ne4 6. cxd5 Nxg5 7. Nxg5 e6
This line in the Gruenfeld Defense is characterized by White's early pin with Bg5 and Black's aggressive counter with Ne4, challenging White's control of the center and provoking exchanges that clarify the central tension. Black's move e6 aims to solidify the center and prepare to recapture on d5, supporting a strong pawn presence in the center.
Characteristic of this move sequence: The move Ne4 is a thematic counterattack in the Gruenfeld, directly contesting the center and forcing White to make decisions about the d5 pawn tension. The exchange on g5 and the subsequent e6 reflect Black’s willingness to accept a solid but flexible pawn structure to undermine White's center later.
Playing style: As White, this sequence is slightly attacking, aiming to maintain central space and piece activity, especially leveraging the pin on the knight. For Black, the setup is more defensive but with active counterplay, focusing on challenging White’s center and preparing to strike back effectively.
Center control: Yes, this opening directly attacks the center. Both sides contest the central squares actively: White tries to hold and expand in the center, while Black uses piece pressure and timely pawn breaks to undermine White’s 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 Gruenfeld: 5.Bg5 Ne4 6.cxd5 Nxg5 7.Nxg5 e6, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #31 white