Pirc Defense · B08

Classical Variation, Quiet System, Chigorin Line

1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nf6 3. Nc3 g6 4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Be2 O-O 6. O-O Nc6

Black's kingside bishop takes the long diagonal. Black lets White build the big centre, fianchettoes on g7, and strikes back at the right moment with ...e5 or ...c5 - counterpunching chess.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... d6 Supports the centre, adding control of e5. Theory calls this the Pirc Defense.
• 2. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2... Nf6 Develops the knight to f6, eyeing d5 and e4.

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