Benoni Defense: Benoni Gambit, Schlenker Defense
ECO A43 ยท Benoni Defense
The Benoni Defense: Benoni Gambit, Schlenker Defense (A43) is a chess opening in the Benoni Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. d4 c5 2. dxc5 Na6.
Moves: 1. d4 c5 2. dxc5 Na6
About this opening
The Schlenker Defense (2.dxc5 Na6) prepares to recapture the c5 pawn with the queenside knight, which will reach an active square. Black accepts a slightly unusual development in return for quick recovery of the material and fluid play. It is a precise answer to the Benoni Gambit, relying on piece activity rather than structure to neutralize White's first-move edge.