ECO code: E30
Nimzo-Indian: Leningrad, 6.d5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bg5 h6 5. Bh4 c5 6. d5
This variation of the Nimzo-Indian Defense features White's advance 6.d5, which is a sharp and assertive move aiming to gain space and restrict Black's central and queenside counterplay. By pushing the d-pawn forward, White grabs more territory in the center and cramps Black's position, especially limiting the scope of Black's light-squared bishop and knight.
Characteristic: The move 6.d5 is a thematic thrust that challenges Black's control over the center and attempts to fix the pawn structure early, often leading to a locked center and a strategic battle on the flanks. It also aims to undermine Black's c5-pawn pressure and drive Black's pieces to less active squares.
Attacking or Defensive: From White's perspective, 6.d5 is an attacking move, as it seeks to seize space and restrict Black's options. Black typically responds with counterplay on the queenside and attempts to undermine White's advanced d5-pawn, so Black's approach is more counterattacking than purely defensive.
Center Control: This opening line directly contests the center. White's 6.d5 pushes forward to claim central space and limit Black's presence there, while Black tries to challenge and break down White's center through pawn breaks and piece activity on the flanks.
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: Leningrad, 6.d5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #9 black