Sicilian Defense · B96

Najdorf Variation, Polugaevsky Variation

1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 a6 6. Bg5 e6 7. f4 b5

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. 5...a6 keeps every option open: ...e5 to claim the centre, ...b5 for queenside space, and no white piece may use b5 - Black invites a sharp fight where the extra centre pawn counts in the long run.

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... d6 Supports the centre, adding control of e5.

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