Central Variation, McDonnell Defense, Somov Gambit

The Somov Gambit is White's 4. Bxc4 against the McDonnell Defense. White regains the c4-pawn at once instead of first protecting d4 with 4. Nf3, and so leaves the d4-pawn en prise. The engine gives Black a slight edge, favoring 4...Qxd4 5. Qxd4 exd4 6. Nf3 c5, which gives Black a stable pawn center. The more popular 4...exd4 scores better for White in online play, while the queen capture brings Black the better results.