Theoria
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Semi-Slav Defense

Meran Variation, Pirc Variation

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  1. 1.d4d5
  2. 2.c4e6
  3. 3.Nc3c6
  4. 4.e3Nf6
  5. 5.Nf3Nbd7
  6. 6.Bd3dxc4
  7. 7.Bxc4b5
  8. 8.Bd3a6
  9. 9.e4b4

No game statistics for this position yet.

A Classical Meran sideline of the Semi-Slav in which Black answers 9. e4 with ...b4, hitting the c3-knight instead of preparing the usual ...c5 break.

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About the Pirc Variation

The Pirc Variation turns away from the Classical Meran at Black's ninth move. After 8...a6 9. e4, Black plays 9...b4 in place of the standard 9...c5. The advance gains a tempo on the c3-knight and pushes it away from its watch over e4 and d5. In return, Black postpones the ...c5 break and leaves the c6-pawn on the half-open c-file, while White keeps a broad pawn center on d4 and e4.

Popular continuations

No continuations known for this position yet.