ECO code: E91
King's Indian Defense: 6.Be2 c5 7.d5
This variation arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 O-O 6. Be2 c5 7. d5. White’s 7.d5 is a thematic pawn thrust in the King's Indian Defense, aiming to gain space on the queenside and restrict Black’s central counterplay.
Characteristic of the move: The move 7.d5 is characteristic of the "Classical Main Line" of the King's Indian, where White grabs space by advancing the d-pawn, effectively closing the center. This forces Black to seek counterplay on the wings, especially on the kingside or via breaks like ...b5 or ...f5.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, 7.d5 is an attacking/space-gaining move, as it cramps Black’s position and limits their central and queenside activity. For Black, this move signals a need to play dynamically and often leads to aggressive counterattacks on the kingside or in the center later.
Center Control: White’s 7.d5 solidly controls the center by pushing Black’s pawn back and closing the central files, aiming to restrict Black’s pieces. Thus, White focuses on a firm and spatially strong center rather than open central exchanges.
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: 6.Be2 c5 7.d5, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 5 - Move #27 black