Liedmann Gambit

The Liedmann Gambit arises after 1. d4 c5 2. c4 cxd4 3. e3. White avoids the usual 2. d5 of the Old Benoni and lets Black take on d4. Instead of regaining the pawn directly, 3. e3 attacks it, offering the e-pawn as well. If Black declines, White can recapture on d4 and keep a broad pawn center. If Black accepts, White gives up material for open lines and quicker development. Engines do not trust the offer and give Black a clear advantage. Their preferred replies are acceptance with 3...dxe3, the supporting 3...e5, and the central counter 3...d5.

In practice Black most often plays 3...Nc6, which defends the d4-pawn with a piece. Taking with 3...dxe3 is nearly as common and scores better for Black. The developing 3...Nf6 is a distant third choice. Overall results on Lichess are almost even despite the engine verdict, which suggests the gambit works mainly as a practical surprise in fast play. It is an offbeat line with little established theory.