Benko Gambit Accepted
ECO A57 · Benko Gambit Accepted · tactical · intermediate
The Benko Gambit Accepted (A57) is a tactical chess opening in the Benko Gambit Accepted family, played by White. It arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5 4. cxb5 a6. White takes both pawns. Black gets lasting compensation. Recommended for intermediate players.
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5 4. cxb5 a6
About this opening
In the Benko Gambit Accepted (4.cxb5 a6), White pockets the pawn, after which Black unfolds the gambit's full philosophy: open a- and b-files, bishops on g7 and a6, doubled rooks and relentless queenside pressure. White must defend carefully and try to make the extra pawn count, often by seeking exchanges. It is a long-haul fight where activity outweighs material.