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.
Catalan: Open, 5.Nf3 Bb4+
The Open Catalan arises after the moves 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.g3 d5 4.Bg2 dxc4 5.Nf3 Bb4+. In this specific line, Black delivers an early check with 5...Bb4+, aiming to disrupt White’s smooth development and provoke a response that may weaken White’s pawn structure or delay castling.
Characteristic of the move 5...Bb4+: This check is a thematic idea in the Open Catalan that challenges White's control over the center and tries to gain time by forcing White to address the check. It also eyes the c3 square and can pressure White’s queenside development.
Attacking or defensive nature: For Black, this move is somewhat aggressive, as it seeks active piece play and tries to unsettle White early on. For White, the response to the check often leads to solidifying control over the center and preparing for a long-term strategic advantage, so White’s approach is generally more positional and somewhat defensive at this stage.
Center control: The Open Catalan as a whole is focused on controlling the center indirectly. White allows Black to capture on c4 temporarily but aims to exert long-term pressure on the center and queenside. The check with Bb4+ does not directly attack the center but is part of Black’s attempt to counter White’s central influence indirectly.
You can also discover how top players used Catalan: Open, 5.Nf3 Bb4+ to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.