Theoria
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Queen's Gambit Declined

Semi-Tarrasch Defense, San Sebastian Variation

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  1. 1.d4d5
  2. 2.c4e6
  3. 3.Nc3Nf6
  4. 4.cxd5Nxd5
  5. 5.e4Nxc3
  6. 6.bxc3c5
  7. 7.Nf3cxd4
  8. 8.cxd4Bb4+
  9. 9.Bd2Qa5
420 games49%43%

A Semi-Tarrasch Exchange line in which Black meets the d4–e4 center with 8...Bb4+ and 9...Qa5, aiming to simplify; rare, and the engine favors White.

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About the San Sebastian Variation

The San Sebastian Variation branches from the Exchange Variation of the Semi-Tarrasch. After 8...Bb4+ 9. Bd2, Black plays 9...Qa5, placing the queen behind the bishop on b4 along the a5–d2 diagonal and seeking simplification against White's mobile d4–e4 pawn pair. The engine gives White a clear advantage. The usual replies are 10. Bd3, 10. Bxb4 and 10. Be2, and the line is rarely seen.

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