ECO code: E00
Queen's Pawn: Anti-Nimzo-Indian
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. a3
This opening move, 3. a3, is a characteristic anti-Nimzo-Indian strategy used by White to prevent Black from playing ...Bb4, which would pin the knight on c3 and exert pressure on the center. By playing 3. a3, White takes a somewhat prophylactic approach, aiming to avoid structural damage and maintain flexibility in the center.
From White's perspective, this move is more positional and defensive rather than aggressively attacking. It seeks to limit Black's options and control key squares rather than launching an immediate attack. Black typically continues to challenge the center, so the overall battle for central control remains a focal point of the game.
In summary, the Anti-Nimzo-Indian does support White's control of the center indirectly by preventing Black's pinning bishop, but it does not immediately challenge the center aggressively. Instead, it emphasizes solid development and strategic preparation.
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 Queen's Pawn: Anti-Nimzo-Indian, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 15 - Move #5 white