ECO code: E41
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: 4.e3 c5 5.Bd3
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 c5 5. Bd3
Description: This line of the Nimzo-Indian features White developing the bishop to d3 early, supporting the e4-square and preparing for a solid central presence. The move 5.Bd3 is characteristic for its focus on quick piece development and control over the center squares, especially aiming to reinforce the d4-pawn and prepare for eventual e4 advances. By placing the bishop on d3 instead of the more common e2 or c4, White signals an intention to maintain a strong pawn center and potentially launch a kingside attack later.
Characteristic of 5.Bd3: This move supports central control and prepares for flexible pawn breaks, particularly the e4 advance. It also helps White maintain a strong hold on the center while keeping options open for development and kingside safety.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this move is primarily attacking, aiming to assert control over the center and prepare for active play. Black’s response with ...c5 challenges White’s center immediately, so Black’s stance is somewhat counter-attacking, seeking to undermine White’s central control.
Center Control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. White focuses on solidifying control over d4 and preparing e4, while Black pressures the center with the ...c5 pawn break and piece activity.
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: 4.e3 c5 5.Bd3, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #10 white