Queen's Pawn Game · A43
Liedmann Gambit
1. d4 c5 2. c4 cxd4 3. e3
An early pawn trade leaves the c-file as Black's avenue and the d-file as White's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. Black keeps the extra pawn; White plays for time, open lines, and initiative - the classic gambit trade.
The first 4 moves, explained
- 1. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
- 1... c5 Challenges the pawn on d4 - the central tension has to resolve. Theory calls this the Old Benoni.
- 2. c4 Fights for d5 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn.
- 2... cxd4 Takes the pawn on d4, toward the centre.
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Where this fits
This line is one of 82 in the Queen's Pawn Game. If you want to know where your own games leave it, the guide on leaving theory explains how that is found.