Réti Opening · A11

Anglo-Slav Variation, with g3, after 1. c4, through 4... dxc4

1. c4 c6 2. Nf3 d5 3. g3 Nf6 4. Bg2 dxc4

An early pawn trade leaves the c-file as White's avenue and the d-file as Black's - both sides get real winning chances down their own file. Black comes out ahead on material - White needs concrete play to justify it. White's kingside bishop takes the long diagonal.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. c4 Fights for d5 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn. Theory calls this the English Opening.
• 1... c6 Fights for d5 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn. Theory calls this the Caro-Kann Defensive System.
• 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5.
• 2... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.

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