Benoni Defense · A43

Zilbermints-Benoni Gambit, Tamarkin Countergambit

1. d4 c5 2. Nf3 cxd4 3. b4 e5

An early pawn trade leaves the c-file as Black's avenue and the d-file as White's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. Black keeps the extra pawn; White plays for time, open lines, and initiative - the classic gambit trade.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... c5 Challenges the pawn on d4 - the central tension has to resolve. Theory calls this the Old Benoni.
• 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the d4 pawn.
• 2... cxd4 Takes the pawn on d4, toward the centre.

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