Sicilian Defense: Classical Variation
ECO B58 · Sicilian Defense · solid · intermediate
The Sicilian Defense: Classical Variation (B58) is a solid chess opening in the Sicilian Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Be2. Natural development. Less theoretical than Najdorf or Dragon. Recommended for intermediate players.
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Be2
About this opening
The Classical Variation develops both knights early (...Nc6 and ...Nf6) without committing the pawn structure prematurely, in a spirit of natural development. White's most combative reply is the Richter-Rauzer Attack (6.Bg5), which aims at attacking the black king. Solid and logical, this variation remains an excellent way to approach the Sicilian with clear principles.