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.
Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Ragozin Variation
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Nf3 d5
This variation arises after Black challenges White's center with ...d5, a hallmark of the Ragozin Variation within the Nimzo-Indian Defense. The move ...d5 strikes directly at White's central pawns and aims to equalize control over the center squares. Here, Black adopts a flexible and dynamic stance, combining solid development with central tension.
Characteristic of this move: Black's ...d5 is a thematic counterstrike in the Nimzo-Indian Ragozin setup, reinforcing central presence and challenging White's d4 and c4 pawns. It often leads to balanced pawn structures and rich positional play.
Attacking or defensive: As Black, this line is partly defensive—solidifying the center and completing development—but also contains active counterplay by contesting White's center. As White, the position remains flexible, with opportunities for central expansion and piece activity. White will often aim to maintain or increase spatial advantage while Black seeks counter-chances.
Center control: Yes, this opening directly contests the center. Both sides fight for central dominance: White tries to maintain their pawn duo on d4 and c4, while Black uses ...d5 to challenge and undermine White's center.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Ragozin Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #11 white
You can also discover how top players used Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Ragozin Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.