ECO code: E94
King's Indian Defense: Orthodox Variation, Glek Defense arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nc3 Bg7 4. e4 d6 5. Nf3 O-O 6. Be2 e5 7. O-O Na6.
The hallmark of the Glek Defense in this line is Black's 7...Na6 move. This knight maneuver aims to reroute to more active squares such as c5 or b4, supporting counterplay on the queenside. It is a flexible and somewhat patient approach, differing from the more immediate central or kingside strikes typical in other King's Indian variations.
From Black's perspective, this setup is primarily defensive early on, focusing on solidifying control over the dark squares and preparing for counterattacks rather than direct confrontation. White, by contrast, maintains a strong central presence with pawns on d4 and e4, thus playing a more attacking and space-gaining role in the center.
This opening does involve a contest for the center: White occupies and controls the center with pawns, while Black contests it indirectly. Black's setup aims to challenge White’s center later with moves like ...c5 or ...f5, but initially, Black’s strategy is to build a resilient position rather than immediate central occupation.
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 Defense: Orthodox Variation, Glek Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 1 - Move #17 black