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.
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, Noa Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2 d5 5. a3
Description: The Noa Variation arises after White plays 5. a3, immediately challenging Black's bishop on b4. This move forces Black to decide whether to exchange on c3 or retreat, aiming to gain the bishop pair or maintain pressure on White’s center. White’s 4. Qc2 supports the knight on c3, preparing to recapture on c3 with the queen if Black captures, thereby preserving central control and flexibility.
Characteristic of 5. a3: This move is a direct challenge to Black’s bishop, seeking to clarify the tension on the queenside early. It helps White avoid doubled pawns on the c-file if Black exchanges on c3 and prepares to expand in the center or queenside. It also indirectly supports White’s control over the center by removing Black’s pinning bishop.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this variation is generally positional and flexible, leaning towards a controlled, strategic approach rather than direct attack. White aims to maintain a strong center and structural integrity. Black’s setup is solid and somewhat defensive, focusing on controlling key central squares and counterattacking when appropriate.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center actively. Black’s 4...d5 stakes a claim in the center, and White’s setup with Nc3 and c4 aims to challenge and undermine Black’s presence. The Noa Variation indirectly supports White’s central ambitions by removing Black’s bishop from b4, which could otherwise exert pressure on the center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, Noa Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #10 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, Noa Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.