Sicilian Defense · B40

Alapin Variation, Sherzer Variation

1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. c3 Nf6 4. e5 Nd5 5. d4 Nc6

2.c3 says no to main-line theory: White simply builds d4 next move and plays a tidy centre against Black's queenside counters.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... c5 Fights for d4 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn. Theory calls this the Sicilian Defense.
• 2. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5.
• 2... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Variation.

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