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.
Name: Catalan Opening
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. g3
FEN: rnbqkb1r/pppp1ppp/4pn2/8/2PP4/6P1/PP2PP1P/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 3
The Catalan Opening is characterized by White's fianchetto of the light-squared bishop with 3. g3. This move supports control over the long diagonal (h1–a8), aiming to put pressure on Black's center, especially the d5 square.
From White's perspective, the Catalan is generally an attacking opening, focusing on long-term positional pressure rather than immediate tactical attacks. Black often responds solidly, so White's strategy revolves around persistent pressure on the center and queenside.
The Catalan directly challenges the center by combining classical pawn moves (d4 and c4) with the powerful bishop fianchetto. While it does not occupy the center aggressively with pawns beyond d4 and c4, it exerts significant influence over central squares, especially through the long diagonal.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Catalan Opening, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 11 - Move #5 black
You can also discover how top players used Catalan Opening to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.