ECO code: E56
Opening Name: Nimzo-Indian Defense: Main Line, 7...Nc6 8.a3 cxd4 9.exd4
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Nf3 d5 6. Bd3 c5 7. O-O Nc6 8. a3 cxd4 9. exd4
Description: This line of the Nimzo-Indian Defense features a classic struggle for central control. Black’s 7...Nc6 develops a knight to support pressure on the center, especially the d4 and c5 squares. White responds with 8.a3, challenging the bishop on b4 and gaining a tempo to clarify the tension. After Black exchanges on d4 with 8...cxd4 and White recaptures with 9.exd4, the position opens slightly, giving both sides chances to contest the center.
Characteristic of the moves: The move 7...Nc6 is characteristic of Black’s intent to increase central tension and piece activity, often leading to dynamic play. White’s 8.a3 is a thematic move in the Nimzo-Indian, forcing Black to decide whether to exchange on c3 or retreat, thereby influencing the pawn structure and control of key squares.
Attacking or Defensive: Playing as White, this line is generally attacking in nature since White aims to seize central space and leverage the bishop pair after potential exchanges. Black’s approach is counterattacking, focusing on undermining White’s center and creating piece pressure rather than outright defense.
Center Control: Yes, this opening heavily involves the center. Both sides contest the central squares d4 and d5 from early on. The exchanges on d4 open lines and diagonals that influence control of the center and piece activity, making central control a core theme of this line.
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: Main Line, 7...Nc6 8.a3 cxd4 9.exd4, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #55 white