Theoria
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Ruy Lopez

Steinitz Defense, Semi-Duras Variation

C62positionaloffbeat

  1. 1.e4e5
  2. 2.Nf3Nc6
  3. 3.Bb5d6
  4. 4.d4Bd7
  5. 5.c4
112 games53%38%

A rare branch of the Ruy Lopez Steinitz Defense in which White answers 4...Bd7 with 5. c4, taking queenside space instead of developing the knight.

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About the Semi-Duras Variation

The Semi-Duras Variation of the Steinitz Defense (ECO C62) meets 4...Bd7 with 5. c4. Instead of developing with 5. Nc3, White adds a pawn to the center, with pawns on c4, d4 and e4 controlling d5. Black most often releases the tension with 5...exd4 or challenges the bishop with 5...a6. The alternative 5...Nxd4 has given Black poor results. The line is seldom played. Engines give White a slight edge, and White scores well in practice.

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