Theoria
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Semi-Slav Defense

Bogoljubow Variation

D46solidpositional

  1. 1.d4d5
  2. 2.c4c6
  3. 3.Nc3Nf6
  4. 4.e3e6
  5. 5.Nf3Nbd7
  6. 6.Bd3Be7
1,684 games53%43%

Semi-Slav line with 6...Be7, a modest bishop development that avoids the Meran and keeps a solid, Queen's Gambit Declined-style setup for Black.

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About the Bogoljubow Variation

The Bogoljubow Variation is a branch of the Semi-Slav's Normal Variation in which Black meets 6. Bd3 with 6...Be7. This keeps the central tension instead of entering the Meran with 6...dxc4 or developing actively with 6...Bd6, the Chigorin Defense. The bishop on e7 gives Black a compact, Orthodox-style setup. White usually replies 7. O-O, and the engine rates the position as slightly better for White.

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