Classical Variation, Alapin Variation

The Alapin Variation replaces the usual 7. f4 with 7. Nb5, which threatens Nc7+ forking king and rook. Black normally spends time evicting the knight, most often with 7...Nb6, while 7...Na6 and 7...Qd8 also appear. The knight can then return via a3 to c2, where it reinforces d4. Emanuel Lasker used the move several times. The engine rates the position as roughly balanced; White scores well on Lichess, though 7...Qd8 has held up better for Black.