Theoria
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Catalan Opening

Closed Variation, Rabinovich Variation

E09positionalsolid

  1. 1.d4d5
  2. 2.c4c6
  3. 3.Nf3Nf6
  4. 4.Qc2e6
  5. 5.Nbd2Be7
  6. 6.g3Nbd7
  7. 7.Bg2O-O
  8. 8.O-Ob5

No game statistics for this position yet.

A Closed Catalan line, reached via a Slav move order, in which Black strikes at c4 with 8...b5 to gain queenside space and free the c8-bishop.

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About the Rabinovich Variation

The Rabinovich Variation is a Closed Catalan reached through a Slav move order, 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Qc2 e6, which gives Black a Semi-Slav-style setup against White's kingside fianchetto. With 8...b5 Black challenges the c4-pawn and claims queenside space. The idea is to find a role for the c8-bishop, perhaps on b7, instead of leaving it passive behind the e6-d5 chain. White's Qc2 and Nbd2 remain aimed at the e2-e4 break.

Popular continuations

No continuations known for this position yet.