Orthodox Defense, Henneberger Variation
- 1.d4Nf6
- 2.c4e6
- 3.Nf3d5
- 4.Nc3Be7
- 5.Bg5O-O
- 6.e3Nbd7
- 7.Rc1a6
352 games
A rare Orthodox Defense line of the Queen's Gambit Declined in which Black meets 7. Rc1 with 7...a6, preparing queenside expansion.
Train it in TheoriaAbout the Henneberger Variation
The Henneberger Variation replaces the usual 7...c6 with 7...a6, preparing ...dxc4 followed by ...b5 so that Black gains queenside space rather than sitting cramped. White most often clarifies the center with 8. cxd5, reaching Carlsbad structures. Alternatives include 8. Bd3, 8. a3, and 8. c5, a space-gaining clamp that has scored well for White. The line is seldom played, and the engine gives White a slight edge.
Popular continuations
- 8. cxd5 Queen's Gambit Declined: Orthodox Defense, Swiss, Carlsbad Variation 30% 106
- 8. Bd3 Queen's Gambit Declined: Orthodox Defense, Henneberger Variation 25% 87
- 8. a3 Queen's Gambit Declined: Orthodox Defense, Henneberger Variation 14% 48
- 8. c5 Queen's Gambit Declined: Orthodox Defense, Henneberger Variation 10% 36