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: Catalan: 4.Nf3 Be7
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. g3 d5 4. Nf3 Be7
Description: The Catalan Opening is a popular and flexible system where White fianchettoes the light-squared bishop with 3.g3, aiming to exert long-term pressure on Black's center and queenside. After 4.Nf3, White develops naturally, supporting the center and preparing to castle. Black’s choice of 4...Be7 is a classical and solid response, preparing to castle kingside and maintain a flexible pawn structure without committing to immediate confrontations in the center.
Characteristic of 4...Be7: This move is a standard developing move that prioritizes king safety and avoids early structural commitments. By placing the bishop on e7, Black keeps options open, delaying the decision about how to contest White’s central and queenside pressure.
Attacking or Defensive? From White’s perspective, the Catalan is generally an attacking opening aimed at controlling key squares and exerting pressure on Black’s center, especially on the d5-pawn. Black’s 4...Be7 is more defensive, focusing on solid development and maintaining a strong, resilient position.
Center Control: The Catalan opening, including this line, does attack and control the center indirectly. White applies pressure on Black’s central d5-pawn primarily through piece play and the fianchettoed bishop, rather than direct pawn confrontation early on. Black maintains their central presence but must be cautious about White’s long-term pressure.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Catalan: 4.Nf3 Be7, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #24 white
You can also discover how top players used Catalan: 4.Nf3 Be7 to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.