Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation

About this opening

The Alapin Variation (2.c3) is the soundest anti-Sicilian: White prepares d4 to build a solid pawn center, avoiding the vast theory of the Open Sicilian. Black usually replies with 2...d5 or 2...Nf6 to challenge that center. Much favored by positional and time-pressed players, the Alapin offers clear play without giving up the advantage of the first move.