ECO code: E32
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, 4...O-O 5.Bg5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2 O-O 5. Bg5
Description: This line of the Nimzo-Indian features White developing the bishop to g5 after Black castles kingside. The move 5.Bg5 is characteristic in that it immediately pins Black’s knight on f6, increasing pressure on the central dark squares, especially e5. By doing so, White aims to challenge Black’s control of the center indirectly and to provoke weaknesses or concessions in Black’s setup.
Characteristic: The move Bg5 is a thematic pin that can lead to doubled pawns if Black exchanges on c3 later, but more immediately it exerts pressure on Black’s knight, which supports central control. This move often signals White’s intent to maintain tension and restrict Black’s central counterplay.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, Bg5 is an attacking move, aiming to put pressure on Black’s kingside and central control. For Black, the position is more positional and somewhat defensive at this point, as Black must carefully navigate the pin and maintain central stability.
Center Control: This opening variation focuses on indirect contestation of the center. White does not immediately push pawns in the center but uses piece pressure (especially the pinned knight) to challenge Black’s central presence. Black, meanwhile, maintains a solid grip on the center with pawns and knights, preparing for counterplay.
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: Classical, 4...O-O 5.Bg5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #24 white