Austrian Defense, Gusev Countergambit

The Gusev Countergambit, named after the Soviet master Nikolai Gusev, is Black's 3...Nf6 in the Austrian Defense. Instead of recapturing on d5, Black develops and leaves the c5-pawn en prise, seeking quick piece activity. Accepting with 4. dxc5 is the most common reply, and Black scores well after it in online games. 4. e4 is regarded as the critical test, while 4. Nf3 can steer toward main Austrian lines and 4. Nc3 keeps the central tension. The engine gives White a slight edge.