Caro-Kann Defense · B11
Two Knights Attack, Mindeno Variation, Exchange Line
1. e4 c6 2. Nc3 d5 3. Nf3 Bg4 4. h3 Bxf3
The pawns on d5 and e4 stand in direct tension - the first player to resolve it chooses the structure.
The first 4 moves, explained
- 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 1... c6 Fights for d5 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn. Theory calls this the Caro-Kann Defense.
- 2. Nc3 Develops the knight to c3, eyeing d5 and e4. It also props up the e4 pawn.
- 2... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 110 in the Caro-Kann Defense. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.