Sicilian Defense · B23

Closed, after 2... e6, through 3. g3

1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 e6 3. g3

White skips d4 entirely, fianchettoes on g2, and plays for a slow kingside build-up while Black expands on the queenside.

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. Nc3 Develops the knight to c3, eyeing d5 and e4. It also props up the e4 pawn.
• 2... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5.

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