ECO code: E90
Opening Name: King's Indian Defense, 5.Nf3 O-O 6.h3 c5 7.d5
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 O-O 6. h3 c5 7. d5
Description: This line in the King's Indian Defense features White solidifying control over the center with 7.d5, gaining space and pushing Black's knight away. The move 6.h3 is a prophylactic measure, preventing Black's bishop or knight from pinning the knight on f3 or jumping to g4, thus securing White’s kingside structure before advancing in the center. Black’s counterplay comes with 6...c5, challenging White’s central presence and aiming to undermine the d5-pawn tension.
Characteristic of the Move 7.d5: The advance d5 is a thematic push in the King's Indian, grabbing space and restricting Black’s typical counterplay in the center and on the kingside. It often leads to a closed center, with Black aiming for counterattacks on the wings.
Attacking or Defensive: From White’s perspective, this setup is primarily attacking in the center and queenside, seeking to cramp Black’s position and prepare for a kingside expansion later. Black’s play is often counterattacking, looking for breaks like ...e6 or ...b5 to challenge White’s center and create dynamic chances.
Center Control: Yes, this opening strongly attacks and contests the center. White occupies and holds space in the center with pawns on d5 and e4, while Black challenges it actively with pawn breaks and piece pressure.
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 King's Indian: 5.Nf3 O-O 6.h3 c5 7.d5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 2 - Move #41 black