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.
Bogo-Indian Defense: Vitolins Variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 Bb4+ 4. Bd2 c5. This line is a flexible and strategic choice for Black, combining the solidity of the Bogo-Indian setup with active counterplay on the queenside.
The characteristic move 4...c5 challenges White's central control immediately, aiming to undermine White's d4-pawn and gain space on the queenside. It signals Black’s intention to fight actively rather than passively defending.
From Black’s perspective, this variation is somewhat attacking as it puts immediate pressure on the center and seeks to provoke weaknesses in White’s pawn structure. For White, the challenge is to maintain central tension and develop harmoniously while responding to Black’s queenside pressure.
Regarding the center, Black’s move c5 is a direct attempt to challenge and attack White’s central presence, especially targeting the d4-pawn. Therefore, this opening actively contests the center rather than conceding it.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Bogo-Indian Defense: Vitolins Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #55 black
You can also discover how top players used Bogo-Indian Defense: Vitolins Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.