Alekhine Defense · B02
Hunt Variation, Matsukevich Gambit
1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. c4 Nb6 4. c5 Nd5 5. Nc3 Nxc3 6. dxc3 d6 7. Bg5
The structure hands White the half-open d-file - rook pressure down it is a standing plan.
The first 4 moves, explained
- 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 1... Nf6 Develops the knight to f6, eyeing d5 and e4. Theory calls this the Alekhine Defense.
- 2. e5 Puts the question to the knight on f6 - retreat, trade, or be taken.
- 2... Nd5 Repositions the knight to d5. It backs up the pawn on c7.
Sign in to read every move's note and train this line — 9 more moves in this line, 13 in all.
Where this fits
This line is one of 56 in the Alekhine Defense. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.