Philidor Defense · C41

Main line, through 2... d6

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6

In the centre, White holds e4 while Black holds e5.

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... d6 Supports the centre, adding control of e5. Theory calls this the Philidor Defense.

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