Benoni Defense: Classical Variation
ECO A72 · Benoni Defense · tactical · advanced
The Benoni Defense: Classical Variation (A72) is a tactical chess opening in the Benoni Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. Nf3 Bg7 8. Be2 O-O. The main tabiya. Kingside vs queenside race. Recommended for advanced players.
Moves: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. Nf3 Bg7 8. Be2 O-O
About this opening
The Classical Variation of the Modern Benoni sees White adopt a solid setup with Nf3, Be2 and O-O, forgoing the sharpest lines for a stable space advantage. Black pursues its characteristic plan: the g7 fianchetto, ...a6, ...Rb8 and the ...b5 break on the queenside. The play remains unbalanced and combative, but on safer footing for both sides than in the sharp pawn-storm attacks.