ECO code: E30
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Leningrad Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bg5
Description: The Leningrad Variation of the Nimzo-Indian Defense arises when White responds with 4.Bg5, developing the bishop actively and pinning Black's knight on f6. This move is characteristic for putting immediate pressure on Black's control of the center and subtly aiming to provoke weaknesses or gain the bishop pair.
Characteristic of this move: The bishop move to g5 is a thematic pin that challenges Black's knight and indirectly contests the e4 square. It often aims to create tension, restrict Black's kingside development, and prepare for central control or kingside attacking chances.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, 4.Bg5 is an attacking move, seeking active piece play and control. For Black, the position remains somewhat defensive but flexible, aiming to neutralize the pin and counterattack in the center.
Center Control: This opening variation continues to focus on contesting the center. White seeks to challenge Black’s central presence indirectly with the pin and subsequent central pawn breaks, while Black maintains a solid grip on central squares with pawns on e6 and d5 (or c5 later).
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 Nimzo-Indian Defense: Leningrad Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 23 - Move #6 white