French Defense · C07

Tarrasch Variation, Open System, Shaposhnikov Gambit

1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 c5 4. exd5 Nf6

An early pawn trade leaves the d-file as Black's avenue and the e-file as White's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. White is up material out of the opening - Black is banking on activity to show for it. Nd2 sidesteps the Winawer pin and keeps the pawn front intact: White accepts a modest centre in exchange for a sound, theory-light edge.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Defense.
• 2. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.

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