Learn the Sicilian Defence

The most popular response to 1.e4. Black fights for the centre asymmetrically and aims for dynamic play.

Starting position
Results with this opening

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Strategic ideas

Control d4, create imbalances, counterattack on the queenside with ...b5 and ...a6.

Common mistakes

Neglecting king safety, allowing White a quick kingside attack with g4-g5.

Typical plans

Expand on the queenside, place pawns on d6 and e6, and counterattack with ...b5 and ...d5 breaks.

Variations

  • Najdorf Variation: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 a6
  • Dragon Variation: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 g6
  • Classical Sicilian: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 Nc6

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