Sicilian Defense: Closed
ECO B26 · Sicilian Defense · positional · beginner
The Sicilian Defense: Closed (B26) is a positional chess opening in the Sicilian Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3 d6 6. Be3. Quiet play with Nc3 and g3. Less theoretical. Recommended for beginner players.
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3 d6 6. Be3
About this opening
In the Closed Sicilian, White forgoes d4 in favor of quiet development with Nc3, g3, Bg2 and f4, aiming for a slow kingside attack. The play, more strategic than tactical, escapes the overwhelming theory of the Open Sicilian. Boris Spassky was a great specialist of it, using it successfully at the highest level, including in World Championship play.