Zukertort Opening · A06

Pachman Gambit

1. Nf3 d5 2. e3 c5 3. c4 dxc4 4. b3

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 keeps the extra pawn; White plays for time, open lines, and initiative - the classic gambit trade.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. Nf3 Develops the knight to f3, eyeing d4 and e5. Theory calls this the Zukertort Opening.
• 1... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2. e3 Supports the centre, adding control of d4.
• 2... c5 Fights for d4 from the flank - contesting the centre without committing a centre pawn.

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