Irish Gambit · C44
Main line
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Nxe5
The structure hands Black the half-open e-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... e5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d4, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5.
- 2... Nc6 Develops the knight to c6, eyeing d4 and e5. It also props up the e5 pawn.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 1 in the Irish Gambit. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.