Classical Defense, Alekhine System, Main Line
- 1.d4d5
- 2.c4dxc4
- 3.Nf3Nf6
- 4.e3e6
- 5.Bxc4c5
- 6.O-Oa6
- 7.Qe2b5
- 8.Bb3Bb7
97 games
The old main line of the Queen's Gambit Accepted Classical Defense, where Black's bishop reaches b7 and White chooses between Rd1, Nc3 and a4.
Train it in TheoriaAbout the Main Line
After 8...Bb7 Black's bishop occupies the long diagonal, aiming at e4 and White's kingside. Theory considers this old main line equal for Black. White most often plays 9. Rd1, preparing a central break. After 9...Nbd7 10. Nc3, Black chooses between 10...Bd6, the Smyslov Variation, and queen moves such as 10...Qc7, usually answered by 11. d5. The alternative 9. a4 b4 challenges the queenside pawns at once.