The Italian Game for White – the whole course to read – Learning studio

Starting position after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4

The Italian Game arises after 1.e4 1...e5 2.Nf3 2...Nc6 3.Bc4: the bishop aims at f7, the weakest point in Black's camp. This course gives you a calm, modern repertoire for White, built from 13,560 games of all the player collections on this site; Stockfish checked every position. It is meant for club players who prefer playing with a clear plan to memorising variations. The core: White builds a firm centre with c3 and d3, castles, puts the rook on e1 and brings the knight via d2 and f1 to g3. Only when everything is ready does the central break d4 follow. Black has two main roads: 3...Bc5, the Giuoco Piano (52 % of the games), and 3...Nf6, the Two Knights Defense (42 %). Against both you play d3 and reach very similar positions. Also watch out for the trap 4...Qe7: Stockfish then sees White almost a pawn ahead.

The ideas

The pawns on c3 and d3 guard e4 and prepare the advance d4 – it comes only when rook and knight are ready.
The knight travels via d2 and f1 to g3 (Nbd2, Nf1, Ng3); Re1 clears f1 for it. From g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
h3 takes the square g4 away from Black's bishop and knight, so that no annoying pin arises.
The bishop often retreats early to b3 (Bb3); against Na5 it steps aside to c2 or a2 and so stays on the board.
If Black offers the bishop trade with Be6, you can take on e6 yourself (Bxe6) and give Black doubled pawns – or, after the trade on b3, recapture with the queen (Qxb3) and aim at b7.
In the Two Knights Defense White gains space on the queenside with a4; against Na5, Ba2 keeps the bishop on the diagonal towards f7.

To the course with board, lines and training →

Chapter 1: 3…Bc5

Line 1: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 Ba7 8.Nbd2 O-O

3…Bc5: Giuoco Piano: Black develops his bishop just as actively and aims at f2. This is the most frequent reply (47 % of the games).
4.c3: The pawn prepares d4 and will later take the square d4 away from the bishop on c5. Stockfish names d3 first by a hair, but the difference is tiny (loss 0.08).
4…Nf6: The most natural move: Black develops and attacks e4. 84 % of the games went on like this.
5.d3: White covers e4 and keeps the tension – the Giuoco Pianissimo. The sharp d4 is possible too, but it opens the position early; Stockfish puts d3 first.
5…d6: Black guards e5 and opens the way for his bishop on c8 – the most frequent reply (53 %). Both sides are now nearly developed.
6.O-O: King safety first. Stockfish narrowly names b4 first, but the difference is tiny (loss 0.02). Usually Bb3, Nbd2 and Re1 follow.
6…a6: Black makes the retreat square a7 for his bishop even before castling. Stockfish prefers to castle first (O-O, loss 0.06).
7.Bb3: The bishop retreats in advance so that b5 or d5 cannot chase it with tempo. Stockfish would have played Re1 first (loss 0.10).
7…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7, where d4 no longer attacks it – the most frequent reply (70 %).
8.Nbd2: The knight starts its journey via d2 to f1 and g3 – Stockfish's first choice.
8…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O Bb3 a6 Nbd2 Ba7 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 2: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 Ba7 8.Nbd2 Ne7 9.Nc4 O-O 10.Bg5 Ng6 11.Nh4 Kh8 12.a4 Be6 13.Ne3 Nf4 14.Nd5 N4xd5 15.exd5

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 1

8…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6 even before castling. Stockfish wanted h6 first (loss 0.20).
9.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and eyes d6 and e5. Stockfish preferred Re1 (loss 0.31).
9…O-O: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black castles.
10.Bg5: 10.Bg5 pins the knight on f6 – White wants to trade it and so weaken d5.
10…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
11.Nh4: 11.Nh4 attacks the knight on g6; your knight wants to go to f5.
11…Kh8: The king leaves the diagonal of your bishop on b3.
12.a4: 12.a4 gains space on the queenside; the bishop on b3 gets a2 as a retreat.
12…Be6: The bishop attacks the knight on c4 and offers to trade your bishop.
13.Ne3: 13.Ne3 steps aside and covers the squares d5 and f5.
13…Nf4: The knight jumps to f4 – a strong square in front of your king.
14.Nd5: 14.Nd5 – you set your knight against it; it attacks the knights on f6 and f4.
14…N4xd5: Black trades on d5 and simplifies – your knight stood too strongly there.
15.exd5: After 15.exd5 your pawn attacks the bishop on e6 and it has to move. Stockfish: level (−0.06).

Line 3: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 Ba7 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 O-O

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 2

8…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
9.Re1: 9.Re1 supports the pawn on e4 and frees f1 for the knight.
9…O-O: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 4: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 Ba7 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 g5 10.Nf1 g4 11.N3d2 h5 12.Nc4 h4 13.Be3 Bxe3 14.Nfxe3 b5 15.Nd2

up to 9.Re1 as line 3

9…g5: 9...g5 – Black storms with the kingside pawns although his king is still in the centre.
10.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
10…g4: The pawn drives the knight from f3 – Black attacks with pawns on the kingside.
11.N3d2: 11.N3d2 – the knight drops back and heads for c4.
11…h5: Black pushes on with 11...h5 and wants to break open your kingside with h4.
12.Nc4: 12.Nc4 – the knight stands actively and eyes d6 and e5.
12…h4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further.
13.Be3: 13.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7, which aims at your pawn on f2.
13…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
14.Nfxe3: 14.Nfxe3 – the knight from f1 recaptures and eyes d5, f5 and g4 from e3.
14…b5: 14...b5 attacks the knight on c4 and gains space on the queenside.
15.Nd2: With 15.Nd2 the knight steps aside. Black's pawns on g4 and h4 have gone far and can become targets – Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.35).

Line 5: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 O-O

up to 7.Bb3 as line 4

7…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O Bb3 a6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 6: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a6 7.Bb3 h6 8.Nbd2 O-O

up to 7.Bb3 as line 5

7…h6: Black first plays 7...h6 and takes the square g5 from your pieces.
8.Nbd2: 8.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
8…O-O: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 7: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 Nh5 12.d4 Nhf4 13.Ng3 Qf6 14.Nh5

up to 6.O-O as line 6

6…O-O: Black castles too – the most frequent reply (41 %) and Stockfish's first choice. Against a6 and Bb6 the game runs along very similar lines.
7.Bb3: The bishop retreats in advance so that Na5 or d5 cannot chase it with tempo, and it keeps aiming at f7. Stockfish slightly prefers h3 (loss 0.07).
7…a6: Black makes the retreat square a7 for his bishop so that d4 will not gain a tempo later. The most frequent reply (58 %).
8.Nbd2: The knight starts its typical journey via d2 to f1 and g3. Stockfish agrees.
8…Ba7: Black puts the bishop on a7 in advance, where no pawn can attack it and it still aims at f2.
9.h3: h3 takes the square g4 away from the bishop on c8 and the knight on f6. Stockfish names Re1 first, but both moves belong to the same plan.
9…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight via e7 to g6 to strengthen his kingside. Stockfish sees a small inaccuracy here (loss 0.29) and wanted h6.
10.Re1: The rook guards e4 and clears the square f1 for the knight. Stockfish's first choice.
10…Ng6: The knight arrives on g6 via e7 and eyes f4 and h4.
11.Nf1: The knight goes on via f1 to g3, where it faces the knight on g6 and eyes f5. Stockfish sees White slightly better (+0.46).
11…Nh5: Black wants to bring the knight to f4 and so put pressure on White's kingside. Stockfish prefers h6.
12.d4: Now is the moment for d4: White strikes in the centre while Black's knight stands on the edge. Stockfish's first choice (+0.55).
12…Nhf4: 12...Nhf4 plants the knight on f4 near your king – Stockfish's first choice for Black. You answer with Ng3; Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.46).
13.Ng3: The knight reaches g3 and keeps f5 under control. Stockfish still sees White somewhat better (+0.51).
13…Qf6: 13...Qf6 is a mistake: from h5 your knight can now attack the queen and the knight on f4 at once.
14.Nh5: 14.Nh5 attacks queen and knight on f4 at once. Black cannot hold both – Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+2.46).

Line 8: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 Be6 13.d4 Re8 14.Bxe6 fxe6 15.Be3

up to 11.Nf1 as line 7

11…h6: Stockfish's own move: Black takes the square g5 away from the bishop on c1 and the knights.
12.Ng3: The knight has arrived. Next, d4 usually follows.
12…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops. Stockfish would have played c5 first (loss 0.11) and answers Be6 with d4.
13.d4: The central break: with the knight on g3 and the rook on e1, d4 is well prepared. Stockfish's line goes this way too.
13…Re8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black puts the rook on the e-file.
14.Bxe6: 14.Bxe6 – you trade bishops before Black trades on b3.
14…fxe6: Black recaptures with the f-pawn: he gets the half-open f-file but doubled pawns on e6 and e5.
15.Be3: With 15.Be3 you set your bishop against the bishop on a7. Black's e-pawns are a target – Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.39).

Line 9: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 Re8 13.d4 c6 14.Be3 exd4 15.Bxd4

up to 12.Ng3 as line 8

12…Re8: Black puts the rook behind the pawn on e5 to support his centre.
13.d4: Again d4 is the plan – Stockfish's first choice.
13…c6: Black controls d5 and b5; Stockfish preferred to offer the bishop trade with Be6.
14.Be3: White develops the last minor piece and confronts the bishop on a7. Stockfish narrowly names a4 first (loss 0.08).
14…exd4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black releases the tension in the centre.
15.Bxd4: 15.Bxd4 – the bishop recaptures, stands in the centre and eyes f6 and a7. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.39).

Line 10: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 Re8 13.d4 Bd7 14.Be3 Be6 15.Bxe6

up to 13.d4 as line 9

13…Bd7: A rather passive bishop move; Stockfish wanted Be6 (loss 0.3).
14.Be3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop confronts the bishop on a7. Stockfish sees White at +0.67.
14…Be6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes from d7 to e6 and offers a trade – Black has lost a tempo on this route.
15.Bxe6: With 15.Bxe6 you trade. You have the better centre – Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.69).

Line 11: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 Re8 13.d4 b5 14.a4 Bb7 15.Qd3

up to 13.d4 as line 10

13…b5: 13...b5 gains space on the queenside and takes a4 from your bishop.
14.a4: 14.a4 – the usual lever against the pawn on b5.
14…Bb7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes to the long diagonal.
15.Qd3: 15.Qd3 supports e4 and keeps the pressure on b5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.24).

Line 12: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 c6 13.d4 Qc7 14.Be3 c5 15.Qd2

up to 12.Ng3 as line 11

12…c6: Black prepares his own strike in the centre; Stockfish preferred c5.
13.d4: Here too White takes the centre with d4 – Stockfish's first choice.
13…Qc7: 13...Qc7 supports e5 against your push d4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.65).
14.Be3: White completes his development; Stockfish sees White noticeably better (+0.75).
14…c5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. With 14...c5 Black attacks the centre.
15.Qd2: 15.Qd2 connects the rooks and puts the queen behind the bishop on e3. Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.69).

Line 13: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 h6 12.Ng3 c6 13.d4 Re8

up to 13.d4 as line 12

13…Re8: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 14: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 Be6 12.Ng3 h6

up to 11.Nf1 as line 13

11…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops.
12.Ng3: The knight comes to g3 – Stockfish's first choice.
12…h6: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 15: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 c6 12.Ng3 h6

up to 11.Nf1 as line 14

11…c6: Black prepares d5; Stockfish preferred h6.
12.Ng3: The knight reaches its goal g3 and guards e4 once more.
12…h6: Transposition: this is the same position as after h6 Ng3 c6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 16: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 Re8 12.Ng3 Be6 13.d4 h6

up to 11.Nf1 as line 15

11…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5.
12.Ng3: Again the knight to g3; in Stockfish's line d4 follows later.
12…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade against your bishop – he wants to get rid of the pressure against f7.
13.d4: 13.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
13…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 17: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Ne7 10.Re1 Ng6 11.Nf1 b5 12.Ng3 Bb7 13.d4 c5 14.h4 c4 15.Bc2

up to 11.Nf1 as line 16

11…b5: Black gains space on the queenside and prepares Bb7.
12.Ng3: The knight goes to g3. Stockfish now names a4 first (loss 0.13); White is slightly better (+0.30).
12…Bb7: 12...Bb7 puts the bishop on the long diagonal against e4 – Stockfish's first choice. It sees you slightly ahead (+0.41).
13.d4: White strikes in the centre. Stockfish prefers a4 to attack the pawn on b5 first (loss 0.11).
13…c5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. With 13...c5 Black attacks the pawn on d4.
14.h4: 14.h4 – you attack on the kingside: the pawn wants to go to h5 and drive away the knight on g6.
14…c4: 14...c4 gains space and attacks the bishop on b3.
15.Bc2: The bishop steps aside to 15.Bc2. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.21).

Line 18: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Nh5 11.Nf1 Qf6 12.Be3 Nf4 13.Ng3 g6 14.d4

up to 9.h3 as line 17

9…h6: Stockfish's first choice: Black takes the square g5 away from the bishop on c1 and the knights.
10.Re1: The rook guards e4 and frees the square f1 for the knight – Stockfish's first choice.
10…Nh5: The most frequent reply (60 %): the knight heads via f4 towards White's kingside. Stockfish prefers Re8 (loss 0.32).
11.Nf1: The knight continues its journey and covers the squares e3, g3 and h2 on the way. Stockfish's first choice.
11…Qf6: The queen goes to f6 and eyes your knight on f3.
12.Be3: White offers the bishop trade and takes the diagonal away from the bishop on a7. Stockfish prefers Bc2 (loss 0.15).
12…Nf4: The most frequent move (77 %), but an inaccuracy: Stockfish wanted to trade on e3 first (Bxe3). Now it sees White at +0.58.
13.Ng3: The knight reaches g3. Stockfish would have played d4 first (loss 0.08).
13…g6: 13...g6 does not chase the knight away but weakens the squares around Black's king. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.79).
14.d4: Now White strikes in the centre; Stockfish's first choice with +0.94 for White.

Line 19: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Nh5 11.Nf1 Qf6 12.Be3 Bxe3 13.Nxe3 Nf4 14.d4 Qg6 15.Kh2

up to 12.Be3 as line 18

12…Bxe3: Stockfish's move: Black trades the bishops before White can take on a7 himself.
13.Nxe3: Engine move: recapture with the knight; on e3 it controls d5 and f5.
13…Nf4: The knight jumps from h5 to f4 and eyes h3 and g2.
14.d4: 14.d4 – you attack e5 and open the centre.
14…Qg6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen goes to g6 and aims at g2 together with the knight on f4.
15.Kh2: 15.Kh2 covers the squares g3 and g2 once more. Stockfish: level (+0.06).

Line 20: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Nh5 11.Nf1 Qf6 12.Be3 Be6 13.d4 Bxb3 14.axb3 Rae8 15.d5

up to 12.Be3 as line 19

12…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops, but according to Stockfish gives something away (loss 0.27); Bxe3 was better.
13.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: Stockfish strikes in the centre at once.
13…Bxb3: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades the bishops.
14.axb3: 14.axb3 – the a-file opens for your rook on a1.
14…Rae8: Black's rook comes to the e-file and supports e5 against your push.
15.d5: With 15.d5 you attack the knight on c6 and gain space. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.39).

Line 21: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Re8 11.Nf1 Be6

up to 10.Re1 as line 20

10…Re8: Stockfish's first choice: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5.
11.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
11…Be6: Transposition: the same position as after Be6 Nf1 Re8 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 22: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Be6 11.Nf1 Re8 12.Be3 Bxe3 13.Nxe3 Bxb3 14.Qxb3 Rb8 15.Rad1

up to 10.Re1 as line 21

10…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops.
11.Nf1: White brings the knight on and allows the trade on b3 – Stockfish's first choice.
11…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file – Stockfish's own move.
12.Be3: White confronts the bishop on a7. Stockfish names Bxe6 first but rates both the same.
12…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
13.Nxe3: The knight recaptures and stands actively on e3, eyeing d5 and f5.
13…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
14.Qxb3: 14.Qxb3 – the queen recaptures and aims at b7 and f7.
14…Rb8: 14...Rb8 covers the pawn on b7 against your queen on b3.
15.Rad1: 15.Rad1 puts the rook behind the d-pawn, which wants to go to d4. Stockfish names Qc2 first but rates both moves the same (+0.26).

Line 23: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Be6 11.Nf1 Re8 12.Be3 Bxe3 13.Nxe3 Qd7 14.Ba4 b5 15.Bc2

up to 13.Nxe3 as line 22

13…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
14.Ba4: 14.Ba4 pins the knight on c6 to the queen on d7. Stockfish would rather trade on e6 at once (Bxe6) but rates both moves the same.
14…b5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black breaks the pin with 14...b5.
15.Bc2: The bishop drops back to 15.Bc2. Stockfish: level (+0.08).

Line 24: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Be6 11.Nf1 Re8 12.Be3 d5 13.Bxa7 Rxa7 14.Qc2 dxe4 15.dxe4

up to 12.Be3 as line 23

12…d5: Black opens the centre at once; Stockfish would have traded on e3 first (Bxe3).
13.Bxa7: White takes the bishop on a7 and so removes Black's most active bishop. Stockfish captures here too.
13…Rxa7: Black recaptures with the rook – Stockfish's first choice, even though the rook on a7 stands awkwardly. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.27).
14.Qc2: Engine move: the queen leaves the d-file and guards e4; Black usually trades with dxe4.
14…dxe4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades in the centre.
15.dxe4: After 15.dxe4 the d-file is open. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.22).

Line 25: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Be6 11.Nf1 Bxb3 12.Qxb3 Qd7 13.Be3 Bxe3 14.Nxe3 Rfe8 15.Nf5

up to 11.Nf1 as line 24

11…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
12.Qxb3: Engine move: recapture with the queen; on b3 it stands actively and aims at b7.
12…Qd7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen connects the rooks.
13.Be3: 13.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7.
13…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
14.Nxe3: 14.Nxe3 – the knight stands well on e3 and wants to go to f5 or d5.
14…Rfe8: The rook goes to e8 and supports e5 – Black is expecting d4.
15.Nf5: With 15.Nf5 the knight takes a strong square and eyes h6 and d6. Stockfish: level (+0.07).

Line 26: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Ne7 11.Nf1 Ng6

up to 10.Re1 as line 25

10…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6; Stockfish preferred Re8 (loss 0.31).
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1 and on to g3 – Stockfish's first choice.
11…Ng6: Transposition: the same position as after Ne7 Re1 Ng6 Nf1 h6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 27: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Be6 10.Re1 Bxb3 11.Qxb3 Rb8 12.Nf1 h6 13.Qc2 d5 14.Be3 Bxe3 15.Nxe3

up to 9.h3 as line 26

9…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops at once.
10.Re1: White guards e4 and allows the trade – Stockfish's first choice.
10…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
11.Qxb3: The queen recaptures and aims at b7. Stockfish's first choice.
11…Rb8: 11...Rb8 covers the pawn on b7 against your queen. Stockfish: level (+0.17).
12.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
12…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black takes the square g5 from your pieces.
13.Qc2: 13.Qc2 – the queen leaves b3 and stands safely on c2.
13…d5: 13...d5 – Black opens the centre before you can play d4.
14.Be3: 14.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7.
14…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
15.Nxe3: After 15.Nxe3 the knight attacks the pawn on d5. Stockfish: level (+0.16).

Line 28: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Be6 10.Re1 Bxb3 11.Qxb3 Qd7 12.Nf1 h6

up to 11.Qxb3 as line 27

11…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
12.Nf1: 12.Nf1 – the knight sets off for g3.
12…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 29: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Be6 10.Re1 h6

up to 10.Re1 as line 28

10…h6: Transposition: the same position as after h6 Re1 Be6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 30: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Be6 10.Re1 Re8 11.Nf1 h6

up to 10.Re1 as line 29

10…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1 – Stockfish's first choice.
11…h6: Transposition: the same position as after h6 Re1 Be6 Nf1 Re8 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 31: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Ba7 9.h3 Nh5 10.Nc4 Qf6 11.Kh2 Nf4 12.Ne3 Be6 13.Ng4 Qg6 14.Nh4 Bxb3 15.axb3

up to 9.h3 as line 30

9…Nh5: Black aims the knight at f4; Stockfish preferred h6 (loss 0.23).
10.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and puts pressure on d6 and e5 – Stockfish's first choice.
10…Qf6: The queen comes to f6 and builds pressure on the kingside together with the knight on h5.
11.Kh2: 11.Kh2 covers the square g3, which the knight on h5 aims at.
11…Nf4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight jumps to f4.
12.Ne3: 12.Ne3 – the knight goes from c4 to e3 and covers g2 and f5.
12…Be6: With 12...Be6 Black offers the trade on b3.
13.Ng4: 13.Ng4 attacks the queen on f6 and gains a tempo.
13…Qg6: The queen steps aside to g6 and attacks the knight on g4.
14.Nh4: 14.Nh4 attacks the queen again – she has hardly any good squares left.
14…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
15.axb3: After 15.axb3 the a-file is open and your knights on g4 and h4 stand actively. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.29).

Line 32: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Be6 9.Nc4 h6 10.Re1 Re8 11.h3 Qd7 12.Be3 Bxe3 13.Nxe3 Bxb3 14.Qxb3 Ne7 15.Nh2

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 31

8…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade without playing Ba7 first.
9.Nc4: The knight goes to c4 and eyes e5 and b6. Stockfish would rather have traded on e6 (Bxe6); after Nc4 the position is level (+0.02).
9…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 9...h6 takes the square g5 from your bishop on c1.
10.Re1: 10.Re1 supports the pawn on e4 and frees f1 for the knight.
10…Re8: Black too puts the rook on the e-file.
11.h3: 11.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
11…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
12.Be3: 12.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on c5.
12…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
13.Nxe3: 13.Nxe3 – the knight recaptures and covers d5 and f5.
13…Bxb3: Black also trades the light-squared bishops.
14.Qxb3: 14.Qxb3 – the queen recaptures and aims at the pawn on b7.
14…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
15.Nh2: With 15.Nh2 the knight clears the way for the f-pawn: f2–f4 is your plan. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 33: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Be6 10.Nf1 Bxb3 11.Qxb3 Qd7 12.Be3 Bxe3 13.Nxe3 Ne7 14.a4 a5 15.Nd2

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 32

8…h6: Black takes away the square g5 and leaves the bishop on c5 for now.
9.Re1: The rook guards e4 and clears f1 – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade at once – Stockfish's own move.
10.Nf1: White brings the knight on. Stockfish would have traded on e6 first (Bxe6) and given Black doubled pawns (loss 0.02).
10…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
11.Qxb3: 11.Qxb3 – the queen stands actively and aims at b7.
11…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
12.Be3: 12.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on c5.
12…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
13.Nxe3: 13.Nxe3 – the knight is back on e3 and eyes d5 and f5.
13…Ne7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight heads for g6.
14.a4: 14.a4 gains space on the queenside and wants to fix b6 with a5.
14…a5: Black holds with 14...a5 and takes a5 from your pawn.
15.Nd2: With 15.Nd2 the knight heads for c4. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 34: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Ba7 10.Nf1 Re8 11.Ng3 Be6 12.Bxe6 Rxe6 13.d4 d5 14.Nxe5 Nxe5 15.dxe5

up to 9.Re1 as line 33

9…Ba7: Black puts the bishop on a7; Stockfish wanted Be6.
10.Nf1: The knight goes on via f1 to g3 – Stockfish's first choice.
10…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
11.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
11…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade against your bishop – he wants to get rid of the pressure against f7.
12.Bxe6: 12.Bxe6 – you trade first so Black cannot take on b3 and open the a-file.
12…Rxe6: The rook recaptures and stands actively on e6.
13.d4: 13.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
13…d5: Black answers with 13...d5 and holds his own in the centre.
14.Nxe5: 14.Nxe5 – you take the pawn on e5, which was no longer covered after d5.
14…Nxe5: Black trades on e5 and simplifies – you have won a central pawn.
15.dxe5: After 15.dxe5 your pawn attacks the knight on f6. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 35: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Ba7 10.Nf1 Be6 11.Ng3 Re8

up to 10.Nf1 as line 34

10…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops.
11.Ng3: The knight reaches g3. Stockfish names Bxe6 first (loss 0.07).
11…Re8: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 36: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Ba7 10.Nf1 Ne7 11.Ng3 Ng6 12.h3

up to 10.Nf1 as line 35

10…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
11.Ng3: Your knight also goes to g3 – it covers f5 against Black's knight.
11…Ng6: The knights face each other: g3 against g6 – both fight for f4 and f5.
12.h3: 12.h3 takes the square g4 from the bishop on c8. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 37: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Ba7 10.Nf1 Nh5 11.h3

up to 10.Nf1 as line 36

10…Nh5: Black aims the knight at f4; Stockfish preferred Re8 (loss 0.2).
11.h3: Stockfish now names Be3 first (loss 0.07). h3 transposes to the position after Ba7 h3 h6 Re1 Nh5 Nf1 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 38: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Re1 Re8 10.Nf1 Ba7

up to 9.Re1 as line 37

9…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
10.Nf1: 10.Nf1 – the knight goes via f1 to g3, as always in this set-up.
10…Ba7: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 39: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 a6 8.Nbd2 Re8 9.h3 h6 10.Re1 Be6 11.Bxe6 Rxe6 12.b4 Ba7 13.Qc2 d5 14.Nb3 d4 15.cxd4

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 38

8…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
9.h3: 9.h3 takes g4 from the bishop on c8 – otherwise it pins your knight on f3.
9…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black does the same with 9...h6.
10.Re1: 10.Re1 supports e4 and frees f1 for the knight.
10…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade against your bishop – he wants to get rid of the pressure against f7.
11.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
11…Rxe6: The rook recaptures on e6 and stands actively on the third rank.
12.b4: 12.b4 attacks the bishop on c5 and gains space.
12…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7, where it keeps aiming at f2.
13.Qc2: 13.Qc2 – the queen stands safely on c2 and covers e4.
13…d5: 13...d5 – Black opens the centre before you play d4.
14.Nb3: 14.Nb3 – the knight covers d4 and holds up the pawn on d5.
14…d4: Black pushes 14...d4 anyway and gains space.
15.cxd4: With 15.cxd4 you take on d4. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 40: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 h6 8.Nbd2 a6

up to 7.Bb3 as line 39

7…h6: Black takes away the square g5. Stockfish narrowly names a5 first (loss 0.05).
8.Nbd2: The knight goes to d2; Stockfish would have played h3 first (loss 0.08).
8…a6: Transposition: the same position as after a6 Nbd2 h6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 41: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 Bb6 8.Nbd2 Ne7 9.Nc4 Ng6 10.h3 h6 11.Re1 Re8 12.Bc2 c6 13.Nxb6 axb6 14.d4 b5 15.a3

up to 7.Bb3 as line 40

7…Bb6: Black retreats the bishop to b6 straight away, before d4 can attack it.
8.Nbd2: The knight starts its journey via d2 – Stockfish's first choice.
8…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
9.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and threatens to take on b6 (Nxb6) – that would give White the bishop pair. Stockfish's first choice.
9…Ng6: 9...Ng6 brings the knight to the kingside. Stockfish: level (+0.14).
10.h3: h3 takes the square g4 away from the bishop on c8. Stockfish names Re1 first (loss 0.13).
10…h6: Black takes away the square g5. Stockfish wanted c6 (loss 0.13).
11.Re1: The rook comes to e1 and guards e4. Stockfish names Bc2 first but rates both moves the same.
11…Re8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black puts the rook on the e-file.
12.Bc2: 12.Bc2 – the bishop drops back; after d3–d4 it supports the pawn on e4 from c2.
12…c6: 12...c6 gives the bishop on b6 the square c7 and prepares d5.
13.Nxb6: 13.Nxb6 – you take the bishop pair from Black.
13…axb6: Black recaptures with the a-pawn and the rook on a8 gets the a-file.
14.d4: 14.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
14…b5: Black gains space on the queenside and takes c4 from your bishop.
15.a3: With 15.a3 you stop the pawn on b5. You have the bishop pair – Stockfish: level (+0.08).

Line 42: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 Bb6 8.Nbd2 Ne7 9.Nc4 Ng6 10.h3 c6 11.Nxb6 axb6 12.Re1 Re8 13.Bc2 d5 14.exd5 cxd5 15.d4

up to 10.h3 as line 41

10…c6: Black allows the trade on b6 and prepares d5.
11.Nxb6: White trades the knight for the bishop and now has the bishop pair. Stockfish's first choice.
11…axb6: Black recaptures with the a-pawn and opens the a-file for his rook. Stockfish: level (+0.11).
12.Re1: The rook guards e4 – Stockfish's first choice.
12…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
13.Bc2: 13.Bc2 – the bishop drops back to c2.
13…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. With 13...d5 Black attacks the centre.
14.exd5: 14.exd5 – you trade and open the e-file for your rook.
14…cxd5: Black recaptures with the c-pawn and has a pawn on d5.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you attack e5. You have the bishop pair, Black the centre – Stockfish: level (−0.02).

Line 43: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 Bb6 8.Nbd2 Ne7 9.Nc4 Ng6 10.h3 Be6 11.Bc2 c5 12.Ng5 Bd7 13.Nxd6 h6 14.Ndxf7 Rxf7 15.Nxf7

up to 10.h3 as line 42

10…Be6: Black offers the trade of the light-squared bishops.
11.Bc2: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop avoids the trade by going to c2 and stays in play.
11…c5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black plays 11...c5 and gains space.
12.Ng5: 12.Ng5 attacks the bishop on e6 and aims at f7.
12…Bd7: The bishop steps aside to d7 – now it no longer guards f7.
13.Nxd6: 13.Nxd6 – you take the pawn on d6; both knights aim at f7.
13…h6: 13...h6 attacks the knight on g5 and wants to drive it away.
14.Ndxf7: 14.Ndxf7 – you take on f7 and attack the queen on d8.
14…Rxf7: Black takes the knight on f7 with the rook – you got material for it.
15.Nxf7: With 15.Nxf7 you take the rook. Once Black recaptures on f7, a rook and two pawns stand against two knights. Stockfish: level (−0.01).

Line 44: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 Bb6 8.Nbd2 Be6 9.Nc4 h6 10.Re1 Na5 11.Nxa5 Bxa5 12.Bxe6 fxe6 13.a4 c5 14.Bd2 a6 15.h3

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 43

8…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish preferred h6 (loss 0.13).
9.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and attacks the bishop on b6.
9…h6: 9...h6 takes g5 from your pieces and gives the king air.
10.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish names a4 first but rates both moves the same.
10…Na5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...Na5 attacks the knight on c4 and the bishop on b3.
11.Nxa5: 11.Nxa5 – you trade knights before Black can trade your bishop.
11…Bxa5: The bishop recaptures on a5 and stands offside on the edge.
12.Bxe6: 12.Bxe6 – you trade the bishops too and give Black a doubled pawn on e6.
12…fxe6: Black recaptures with the f-pawn: he gets the half-open f-file and covers d5, but e6 can become weak.
13.a4: 13.a4 gains space on the queenside and takes squares from the bishop on a5.
13…c5: 13...c5 secures d4 for Black and holds up d4.
14.Bd2: 14.Bd2 develops the last bishop and offers to trade the bishop on a5.
14…a6: 14...a6 keeps your pieces away from b5. Stockfish: level (+0.11).
15.h3: With 15.h3 you take the square g4 from the knight on f6. Stockfish: level (+0.13).

Line 45: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O O-O 7.Bb3 Bg4 8.h3 Be6 9.Bxe6 fxe6 10.b4 Bb6 11.a4 a6 12.Nbd2 h6 13.Ra2 Qd7 14.Ba3 Ba7 15.b5

up to 7.Bb3 as line 44

7…Bg4: Black pins the knight on f3. Stockfish sees a small inaccuracy here (loss 0.20) and wanted a5.
8.h3: White puts the question to the bishop at once: trade or retreat. Stockfish's first choice.
8…Be6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to e6 and offers a trade.
9.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
9…fxe6: Black gets the half-open f-file but doubled pawns on the e-file.
10.b4: 10.b4 attacks the bishop on c5 and gains space on the queenside.
10…Bb6: The bishop goes to b6, out of the b4-pawn's reach.
11.a4: 11.a4 threatens a4–a5, attacking the bishop on b6.
11…a6: With 11...a6 Black gives the bishop the square a7.
12.Nbd2: 12.Nbd2 develops the knight and covers e4 and c4.
12…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
13.Ra2: 13.Ra2 – the rook can reach the centre along the second rank.
13…Qd7: 13...Qd7 connects the rooks. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.30).
14.Ba3: 14.Ba3 – the bishop leaves c1 and eyes d6.
14…Ba7: The bishop goes back to a7 and stays on the diagonal against f2.
15.b5: With 15.b5 you attack the knight on c6 and open the queenside; then your bishop on a3 eyes d6. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.25).

Line 46: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a5 9.Nbd2 Be6 10.Bb5 Qb8 11.Nf1 Qa7 12.Re2 a4 13.Ng3 Qa5 14.Bxc6 bxc6 15.d4

up to 6.O-O as line 45

6…h6: 6...h6 – Black takes the square g5 from your bishop.
7.Re1: 7.Re1 supports e4 and frees f1 for the knight.
7…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
8.h3: 8.h3 – you too take the square g4 from the bishop on c8.
8…a5: 8...a5 gives the bishop on c5 the square a7 and threatens a5–a4.
9.Nbd2: 9.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
9…Be6: With 9...Be6 Black offers the trade on c4.
10.Bb5: 10.Bb5 avoids the trade and attacks the knight on c6.
10…Qb8: The queen goes to b8 – an unusual route to the queenside.
11.Nf1: 11.Nf1 – the knight goes on towards g3.
11…Qa7: The queen stands on a7 behind the bishop on c5 and aims at f2 with it.
12.Re2: 12.Re2 covers f2 a second time against queen and bishop.
12…a4: Black gains space on the queenside and takes b3 from your bishop.
13.Ng3: 13.Ng3 – the knight has arrived and eyes f5.
13…Qa5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen goes to a5 and attacks the bishop on b5.
14.Bxc6: 14.Bxc6 – you give the bishop for the knight.
14…bxc6: Black recaptures with the b-pawn; his queenside pawns are split.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you attack the bishop on c5 and take the centre. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 47: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a5 9.Nbd2 Be6 10.Bb5 Nd7 11.Nf1 d5 12.Ne3 dxe4 13.dxe4 Re8 14.a4 Na7 15.Bd3

up to 10.Bb5 as line 46

10…Nd7: The knight goes to d7 and makes room for the f-pawn.
11.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
11…d5: Black opens the centre with 11...d5 while your knight is on its way.
12.Ne3: 12.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
12…dxe4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades in the centre.
13.dxe4: 13.dxe4 – the d-file is open, the rooks get work.
13…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
14.a4: 14.a4 covers the bishop on b5 and gains space.
14…Na7: The knight attacks the bishop on b5 and wants to drive it away.
15.Bd3: The bishop drops back to 15.Bd3 and protects e4. Stockfish: level (+0.14).

Line 48: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a5 9.Nbd2 Be6 10.Bb5 Ba7 11.Nf1 Ne7 12.Ng3 c6 13.Ba4 b5 14.Bc2 a4 15.d4

up to 10.Bb5 as line 47

10…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7 already, out of reach of d3–d4.
11.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
11…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
12.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
12…c6: 12...c6 attacks the bishop on b5 and prepares d5.
13.Ba4: 13.Ba4 – the bishop steps aside and stays on the diagonal.
13…b5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black keeps chasing it with 13...b5.
14.Bc2: 14.Bc2 – the bishop now stands on c2; after d3–d4 it supports e4.
14…a4: Black gains space on the queenside and cuts off your bishop.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you strike in the centre. Stockfish: level (+0.12).

Line 49: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a5 9.Nbd2 a4 10.Bb5 Bd7 11.Nf1 Ne7 12.Bxd7 Qxd7 13.Ng3 Bb6 14.d4 exd4 15.cxd4

up to 9.Nbd2 as line 48

9…a4: 9...a4 – Black gains space on the queenside.
10.Bb5: 10.Bb5 attacks the knight on c6, which covers e5.
10…Bd7: With 10...Bd7 Black sets the bishop against it.
11.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
11…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
12.Bxd7: 12.Bxd7 – you trade the bishops and simplify.
12…Qxd7: The queen recaptures and connects the rooks.
13.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
13…Bb6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes to b6, out of reach of d3–d4.
14.d4: 14.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
14…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
15.cxd4: After 15.cxd4 you have a strong pawn centre on d4 and e4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.20).

Line 50: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a5 9.Nbd2 a4 10.Bb5 Bd7 11.Nf1 Ne7 12.Bxd7 Nxd7 13.d4 Bb6 14.Qc2 exd4 15.Nxd4

up to 12.Bxd7 as line 49

12…Nxd7: This time Black recaptures with the knight.
13.d4: 13.d4 attacks the bishop on c5 and takes the centre.
13…Bb6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to b6.
14.Qc2: 14.Qc2 supports the pawn on e4 against your opponent.
14…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
15.Nxd4: After 15.Nxd4 your knight stands strongly in the centre. Stockfish: level (+0.19).

Line 51: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Ba7 10.Nbd2 Re8 11.b4 Be6 12.Bxe6 Rxe6 13.Qc2 Qd7 14.Nf1 d5 15.Be3 Bxe3 16.Nxe3

up to 8.h3 as line 50

8…a6: 8...a6 gives the bishop on c5 the square a7 should you play b4.
9.a4: 9.a4 gains space and holds back …b5.
9…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7 and avoids d4 with tempo.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
10…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
11.b4: 11.b4 gains space on the queenside and prepares a5.
11…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
12.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
12…Rxe6: The rook recaptures on e6 and stands actively on the third rank.
13.Qc2: 13.Qc2 – the queen stands safely on c2 and covers e4.
13…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
14.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
14…d5: 14...d5 – Black opens the centre.
15.Be3: 15.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7.
15…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
16.Nxe3: After 16.Nxe3 the knight attacks the pawn on d5. Stockfish: level (+0.08).

Line 52: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Ba7 10.Nbd2 Re8 11.b4 Be6 12.Bxe6 Rxe6 13.Qc2 Ne7 14.Nf1 Ng6 15.Ng3

up to 13.Qc2 as line 51

13…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
14.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
14…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
15.Ng3: With 15.Ng3 the knights face each other; yours eyes f5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.32).

Line 53: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Ba7 10.Nbd2 Re8 11.b4 Be6 12.Bxe6 Rxe6 13.Qc2 d5 14.Nb3 dxe4 15.dxe4

up to 13.Qc2 as line 52

13…d5: With 13...d5 Black opens the centre.
14.Nb3: 14.Nb3 – the knight covers the square d4 and eyes c5.
14…dxe4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades in the centre.
15.dxe4: After 15.dxe4 the d-file is open. Stockfish: level (+0.19).

Line 54: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Ba7 10.Nbd2 Be6 11.Bxe6 fxe6 12.b4 Nh5 13.Nf1 Qe8 14.Ra2 Nf4 15.Kh2

up to 10.Nbd2 as line 53

10…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
11.Bxe6: 11.Bxe6 – you trade at once and give Black a doubled pawn.
11…fxe6: Black recaptures with the f-pawn: he gets the half-open f-file and covers d5, but e6 can become weak.
12.b4: 12.b4 gains space on the queenside.
12…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and wants to reach f4 – a strong square in front of your king.
13.Nf1: 13.Nf1 – the knight comes over to defend.
13…Qe8: The queen heads via e8 to the kingside and wants to attack from there.
14.Ra2: 14.Ra2 – the rook can reach the kingside along the second rank.
14…Nf4: The knight stands strongly on f4 and eyes h3 and g2.
15.Kh2: 15.Kh2 covers the square g3. Stockfish narrowly names N1h2 first; level (+0.13).

Line 55: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Ba7 10.Nbd2 Ne7 11.Nf1 Ng6 12.Ng3 c6 13.Ba2 d5 14.exd5 Nxd5 15.d4

up to 10.Nbd2 as line 54

10…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
11.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
11…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
12.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
12…c6: 12...c6 prepares …d5 and takes b5 and d5 from your pieces.
13.Ba2: 13.Ba2 – the bishop goes to a2 in advance; after …d5 it would be attacked on c4.
13…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black strikes with 13...d5.
14.exd5: 14.exd5 – you trade and open the e-file.
14…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands in the centre.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you attack e5 and open the game in the centre. Stockfish: level (+0.13).

Line 56: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Re8 10.Nbd2 Be6 11.Bxe6 Rxe6 12.b4 Ba7

up to 9.a4 as line 55

9…Re8: Black first puts the rook on the e-file.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
10…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
11.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
11…Rxe6: The rook recaptures on e6 and stands actively on the third rank.
12.b4: 12.b4 attacks the bishop on c5 and gains space.
12…Ba7: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 57: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 a5 10.Nbd2 Be6 11.Bb5 Na7 12.d4 Nxb5 13.axb5 exd4 14.Nxd4 Re8 15.Nf1

up to 9.a4 as line 56

9…a5: 9...a5 stops your pawn on a4 and secures the square b4.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 develops the knight and prepares knight to f1–g3. Stockfish narrowly names d4 first (loss 0.01).
10…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
11.Bb5: 11.Bb5 avoids the trade and attacks the knight on c6.
11…Na7: The knight attacks the bishop on b5 and wants to trade it.
12.d4: 12.d4 – you leave the bishop where it is and attack the bishop on c5.
12…Nxb5: Black takes the bishop on b5 – the bishop pair is gone.
13.axb5: 13.axb5 – you recapture; the a-file is open for your rook.
13…exd4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades on d4.
14.Nxd4: 14.Nxd4 attacks the bishop on e6 and stands centrally.
14…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
15.Nf1: With 15.Nf1 the knight from d2 comes into play. Stockfish: level (+0.03).

Line 58: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 a6 9.a4 Be6 10.Bxe6 fxe6 11.b4 Ba7 12.Ra2 Qd7 13.Nbd2 Ne7 14.Nf1 Ng6 15.d4

up to 9.a4 as line 57

9…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
10.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
10…fxe6: Black recaptures with the f-pawn: he gets the half-open f-file and covers d5, but e6 can become weak.
11.b4: 11.b4 attacks the bishop on c5 and gains space.
11…Ba7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes to a7.
12.Ra2: 12.Ra2 – the rook can come into play along the second rank.
12…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
13.Nbd2: 13.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
13…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
14.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
14…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you attack e5. Stockfish: level (+0.16).

Line 59: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 Bb6 9.Nbd2 Ne7 10.d4 Nc6 11.a4 a5 12.Bb5 exd4 13.Nc4 dxc3 14.Nxb6 cxb6 15.bxc3

up to 8.h3 as line 58

8…Bb6: 8...Bb6 – the bishop goes to b6 in advance, out of reach of d3–d4.
9.Nbd2: 9.Nbd2 develops the knight and prepares knight to f1–g3.
9…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
10.d4: 10.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
10…Nc6: The knight returns to c6 and attacks d4.
11.a4: 11.a4 threatens a4–a5 against the bishop on b6.
11…a5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black holds with 11...a5.
12.Bb5: 12.Bb5 attacks the knight on c6, which covers e5.
12…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
13.Nc4: 13.Nc4 attacks the bishop on b6 and eyes d6.
13…dxc3: Black takes on c3 and gives up a piece for pawns.
14.Nxb6: 14.Nxb6 – you take the bishop first.
14…cxb6: Black recaptures with the c-pawn.
15.bxc3: After 15.bxc3 you have the bishop pair, Black doubled pawns on the b-file. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 60: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 a5 8.Nbd2 O-O 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Bb5 Ne7 11.d4 exd4 12.cxd4 Bb6 13.Ng3 d5 14.e5 Ne4 15.Bd3

up to 7.Re1 as line 59

7…a5: 7...a5 – Black gains space on the queenside and does not castle yet.
8.Nbd2: 8.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
8…O-O: Now Black castles and brings his king to safety.
9.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
9…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
10.Bb5: 10.Bb5 steps aside and attacks the knight on c6.
10…Ne7: The knight steps aside to e7 and wants to reach g6.
11.d4: 11.d4 attacks the bishop on c5 and takes the centre.
11…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
12.cxd4: 12.cxd4 – you now have a pawn centre on d4 and e4.
12…Bb6: The bishop steps aside to b6 and stays on the diagonal against f2.
13.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
13…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. With 13...d5 Black attacks the centre.
14.e5: 14.e5 attacks the knight on f6 and gains space.
14…Ne4: The knight jumps to e4 and attacks the knight on g3.
15.Bd3: With 15.Bd3 you attack the knight on e4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.24).

Line 61: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 a5 8.Nbd2 O-O 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Bb5 Bb6 11.Ng3 Ne7 12.d4 exd4 13.cxd4

up to 10.Bb5 as line 60

10…Bb6: The bishop goes to b6 at once and avoids d4 with tempo.
11.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
11…Ne7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight steps aside to e7.
12.d4: 12.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
12…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
13.cxd4: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 62: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O h6 7.Re1 a5 8.Nbd2 O-O 9.Nf1 a4 10.Bb5 a3 11.b4 Bb6 12.Ng3 Ne7 13.d4 Ng6 14.Bd3 Bg4 15.d5

up to 9.Nf1 as line 61

9…a4: 9...a4 gains space on the queenside.
10.Bb5: 10.Bb5 attacks the knight on c6, which covers e5.
10…a3: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...a3 – the pawn pushes on and wants to weaken your queenside.
11.b4: 11.b4 attacks the bishop on c5 and keeps the b-file closed.
11…Bb6: The bishop steps aside to b6.
12.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
12…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
13.d4: 13.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
13…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
14.Bd3: 14.Bd3 – the bishop drops back and protects e4.
14…Bg4: 14...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen on d1.
15.d5: With 15.d5 you gain space in the centre. Stockfish: level (+0.14).

Line 63: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O Bb6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.Bb3

up to 6.O-O as line 62

6…Bb6: Black retreats the bishop to b6 at once so that d4 cannot attack it with tempo.
7.Nbd2: The knight goes to d2 – Stockfish's first choice.
7…O-O: Black castles, the king is safe. Stockfish narrowly names h6 first (loss 0.06).
8.Bb3: Transposition: after Bb3 you have the position of the line O-O Bb3 Bb6 Nbd2 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 64: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O Bb6 7.Nbd2 Ne7 8.Bb3 c6 9.d4 Ng6 10.Nc4 O-O 11.dxe5 dxe5 12.Qxd8 Bxd8 13.Nd6 Bc7 14.Nxc8 Rfxc8 15.Re1

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 63

7…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6 even before castling.
8.Bb3: The bishop retreats to b3 in advance so that d5 cannot chase it away.
8…c6: Black prepares d5. Stockfish wanted Ng6 (loss 0.17).
9.d4: White strikes in the centre before Black can play d5 – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Ng6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight goes to g6.
10.Nc4: 10.Nc4 attacks the bishop on b6.
10…O-O: Black castles and leaves the bishop where it is.
11.dxe5: 11.dxe5 – you trade in the centre and open the d-file.
11…dxe5: Black recaptures with the pawn.
12.Qxd8: 12.Qxd8 – you trade queens and go into the endgame.
12…Bxd8: The bishop recaptures.
13.Nd6: 13.Nd6 – the knight jumps to d6 and attacks the bishop on c8.
13…Bc7: The bishop attacks the knight on d6.
14.Nxc8: 14.Nxc8 – you take the bishop pair from Black.
14…Rfxc8: The rook recaptures on c8 – level.
15.Re1: With 15.Re1 you protect e4. In the endgame you have the bishop pair – Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.31).

Line 65: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O Bb6 7.Nbd2 Ne7 8.Bb3 Ng6 9.Nc4 O-O

up to 8.Bb3 as line 64

8…Ng6: Stockfish's move: the knight arrives on g6 and strengthens the kingside.
9.Nc4: The knight attacks the bishop on b6; after a trade on b6 White would have the bishop pair.
9…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O Bb3 Bb6 Nbd2 Ne7 Nc4 Ng6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 66: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 h6

up to 6.O-O as line 65

6…a5: 6...a5 gives the bishop on c5 the square a7 and holds up b4.
7.Re1: 7.Re1 supports e4 and frees f1.
7…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
8.h3: 8.h3 takes the square g4 from the bishop on c8.
8…h6: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 67: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 Ba7 9.Na3 Ne7 10.d4 Ng6 11.Be3 c6 12.Bf1 Nxe4 13.dxe5 Bxe3 14.Rxe3 d5 15.c4

up to 8.h3 as line 66

8…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7 and avoids d4 with tempo.
9.Na3: 9.Na3 – the knight wants to come into play via c2 or b5.
9…Ne7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight heads via e7 for g6.
10.d4: 10.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
10…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
11.Be3: 11.Be3 opposes the bishop on a7 and covers d4.
11…c6: Black prepares …d5 and takes b5 and d5 from your pieces.
12.Bf1: 12.Bf1 – the bishop steps aside to f1 in advance.
12…Nxe4: 12...Nxe4 – Black takes the pawn on e4 while your bishop stands on f1.
13.dxe5: 13.dxe5 – you take back on e5 and open the d-file.
13…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
14.Rxe3: 14.Rxe3 attacks the knight on e4 and wins the pawn back.
14…d5: 14...d5 covers the knight on e4 and builds a centre.
15.c4: With 15.c4 you attack the pawn on d5. Stockfish: level (+0.12).

Line 68: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 O-O 8.h3 Be6 9.Bb5 Bb6 10.Nbd2 h6 11.Nc4 Bc5 12.Ne3 Bb6 13.Nc4

up to 8.h3 as line 67

8…Be6: Black offers the trade on c4 and wants to get rid of your bishop.
9.Bb5: 9.Bb5 steps aside and attacks the knight on c6.
9…Bb6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes to b6.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 develops the knight and prepares knight to c4.
10…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
11.Nc4: 11.Nc4 attacks the bishop on b6 and eyes d6.
11…Bc5: The bishop goes back to c5 and stays on the diagonal against f2.
12.Ne3: 12.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
12…Bb6: The bishop goes back to b6 and attacks the knight on e3.
13.Nc4: The moves repeat. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 69: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 Ba7 8.Na3 h6 9.Nb5 Bb6 10.Be3 Bxe3 11.Rxe3 O-O 12.d4 Bg4 13.h3 Bh5 14.Qe1 exd4 15.Nbxd4

up to 7.Re1 as line 68

7…Ba7: 7...Ba7 – the bishop goes to a7 already.
8.Na3: 8.Na3 – the knight wants to reach b5 and disturb the bishop on a7.
8…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
9.Nb5: 9.Nb5 attacks the bishop on a7.
9…Bb6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to b6.
10.Be3: 10.Be3 offers the bishop trade and takes the diagonal against f2 from Black.
10…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
11.Rxe3: 11.Rxe3 – the rook recaptures and stands actively on the third rank.
11…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
12.d4: 12.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
12…Bg4: 12...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen.
13.h3: 13.h3 asks the bishop on g4 whether it trades or retreats.
13…Bh5: The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
14.Qe1: 14.Qe1 breaks the pin on the knight on f3.
14…exd4: Black takes on d4 and attacks the rook on e3.
15.Nbxd4: With 15.Nbxd4 you recapture; the knight attacks c6. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 70: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 Ba7 8.Na3 O-O 9.h3

up to 8.Na3 as line 69

8…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
9.h3: 9.h3 takes the square g4 from the bishop on c8. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 71: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O a5 7.Re1 h6

up to 7.Re1 as line 70

7…h6: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 72: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O Bg4 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 Bh5 9.Re1 a5 10.Nf1 h6 11.a3 Bg6 12.Ng3 Kh7 13.Bb3 Kh8 14.Bd2 Bh7 15.Ba4

up to 6.O-O as line 71

6…Bg4: Black pins the knight on f3. Stockfish considers this an inaccuracy (loss 0.25), prefers to castle (O-O) and sees White at +0.37.
7.Nbd2: The knight gives f3 extra cover. Stockfish names h3 first but rates both moves the same.
7…O-O: Black castles; Stockfish wanted a6 (loss 0.17).
8.h3: Now White questions the bishop with h3: trade or retreat.
8…Bh5: The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
9.Re1: 9.Re1 supports e4 and frees f1 for the knight.
9…a5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gains space on the queenside.
10.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
10…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
11.a3: 11.a3 prepares b2–b4 and gives the bishop the square a2.
11…Bg6: The bishop goes to g6 and presses on e4.
12.Ng3: 12.Ng3 – the knight covers e4 and eyes f5.
12…Kh7: The king goes to h7 and prepares knight to g8 or f5.
13.Bb3: 13.Bb3 – the bishop goes out of reach of …d5 and …b5.
13…Kh8: Black waits and puts the king back on h8.
14.Bd2: Bd2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
14…Bh7: The bishop goes to h7 and keeps the diagonal against e4.
15.Ba4: With 15.Ba4 you attack the knight on c6. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.40).

Line 73: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 d6 6.O-O Bg4 7.Nbd2 Qd7 8.b4 Bb6 9.Re1 Bh5 10.Nf1 a5 11.b5 Ne7 12.Bg5 Bxf3 13.Qxf3 Qg4 14.Qxg4 Nxg4 15.Re2

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 72

7…Qd7: The queen supports the bishop on g4. Stockfish rates the move as an inaccuracy (loss 0.40) and wanted a6.
8.b4: White gains space on the queenside and drives away the bishop on c5. Stockfish would have played h3 first (loss 0.28).
8…Bb6: The bishop steps aside to b6. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.58).
9.Re1: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the rook guards e4 and clears f1 for the knight.
9…Bh5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
10.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
10…a5: 10...a5 attacks the pawn on b4 and wants to open the queenside.
11.b5: 11.b5 attacks the knight on c6 and gains space.
11…Ne7: The knight steps aside to e7 and wants to reach g6.
12.Bg5: 12.Bg5 attacks the knight on f6.
12…Bxf3: Black gives the bishop for the knight on f3.
13.Qxf3: 13.Qxf3 – the knight on f6 is now attacked twice.
13…Qg4: 13...Qg4 offers a queen trade and attacks the bishop on g5.
14.Qxg4: 14.Qxg4 – you trade queens and go into the endgame.
14…Nxg4: The knight recaptures – a level endgame.
15.Re2: With 15.Re2 you protect f2 against the knight on g4. You have the bishop pair – Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.35).

Line 74: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d5 9.O-O dxe4 10.dxe4 Qe7 11.Nh2 Rd8 12.Qe2 Be6 13.Re1 a5 14.Bxe6 Qxe6 15.a4

up to 5.d3 as line 73

5…a6: Black already makes the retreat square a7 for his bishop so that a later d4 does not gain a tempo. With 37 % the second most frequent reply.
6.Bb3: The bishop retreats in advance before b5 or d5 can attack it. Stockfish would have castled first (O-O) (loss 0.09).
6…Ba7: Black puts the bishop on a7, where no pawn can attack it any more – the most frequent reply (51 %).
7.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2 – Stockfish's first choice.
7…O-O: Black castles first and keeps the advance d5 in reserve.
8.h3: h3 takes g4 away from bishop and knight; the white king stays in the centre for now. Stockfish would rather have castled (loss 0.18).
8…d5: Stockfish's move: Black strikes in the centre while the white king has not yet castled. The position is level (0.00).
9.O-O: Now White brings his king to safety. Stockfish names Qe2 first but rates both moves the same.
9…dxe4: Black trades on e4 and opens the d-file.
10.dxe4: White recaptures with the pawn and keeps a solid pawn on e4. Stockfish names Nxe4 first but rates both moves the same.
10…Qe7: 10...Qe7 connects the rooks and covers e5. Stockfish narrowly names h6 first; level (+0.08).
11.Nh2: The knight goes to h2 in order to attack the knight on f6 via g4. Stockfish prefers Re1 (loss 0.16).
11…Rd8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The rook goes to the open d-file.
12.Qe2: 12.Qe2 – the queen leaves the d-file, where the rook on d8 stands.
12…Be6: Black offers the trade on b3.
13.Re1: 13.Re1 supports the pawn on e4.
13…a5: Black gains space on the queenside and threatens a4.
14.Bxe6: 14.Bxe6 – you trade bishops before Black takes on b3.
14…Qxe6: The queen recaptures and stands actively on e6.
15.a4: With 15.a4 you stop …a5–a4. Stockfish: level (−0.06).

Line 75: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 h6 9.g4 d5 10.g5 hxg5 11.Nxg5 Ne7 12.exd5 Nexd5 13.Nde4 Bf5 14.Qf3 Bg6 15.Rg1

up to 8.h3 as line 74

8…h6: A mistake (loss 0.5): Stockfish wanted d5. As the white king is still in the centre, White can now attack on the kingside; Stockfish sees him at +0.5.
9.g4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White attacks the kingside with g4, where his own king does not even stand. In Stockfish's line d5 and g5 follow.
9…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 9...d5 – Black counters in the centre against your wing attack.
10.g5: 10.g5 attacks the knight on f6 – you attack on the kingside.
10…hxg5: Black takes on g5 and opens the h-file.
11.Nxg5: 11.Nxg5 – the g-file is half-open and your knight stands in front of the black king.
11…Ne7: The knight goes to e7 and on to d5 or g6.
12.exd5: 12.exd5 – you trade in the centre.
12…Nexd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5.
13.Nde4: 13.Nde4 attacks the knight on f6.
13…Bf5: The bishop attacks the knight on e4.
14.Qf3: 14.Qf3 protects e4 and attacks the bishop on f5.
14…Bg6: The bishop steps aside to g6 and stays on the diagonal.
15.Rg1: With 15.Rg1 you put the rook on the g-file against the black king. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.33).

Line 76: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 d5 10.Qe2 dxe4 11.dxe4 Nh5 12.Bg5 Qe8 13.g3 Be6 14.N3d2 Bxb3 15.Nxb3

up to 8.h3 as line 75

8…d6: Black carries on quietly; Stockfish wanted the active d5 (loss 0.08).
9.Nf1: White postpones castling and brings the knight via f1 to g3 at once. Stockfish names castling first but rates both moves the same.
9…d5: Stockfish's move: Black uses the fact that the white king is still in the centre and opens the centre.
10.Qe2: The queen guards e4 and does not get in the way of castling – Stockfish's first choice.
10…dxe4: Black releases the tension in the centre; Stockfish wanted Be6 (loss 0.13).
11.dxe4: White recaptures with the pawn – Stockfish's first choice. The d-file is now open.
11…Nh5: 11...Nh5 heads for f4. Stockfish: level (+0.26).
12.Bg5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop attacks the queen on d8 and gains time.
12…Qe8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen steps away from the bishop on g5.
13.g3: 13.g3 takes the square f4 from the knight on h5.
13…Be6: Black offers the trade on b3.
14.N3d2: 14.N3d2 – the knight regroups and protects b3.
14…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
15.Nxb3: After 15.Nxb3 the knight stands on b3 and eyes c5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.22).

Line 77: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 d5 10.Qe2 Be6 11.Ng3 h6 12.O-O Qd6 13.Bc2 dxe4 14.dxe4 Rfd8 15.Re1

up to 10.Qe2 as line 76

10…Be6: Stockfish's move: Black develops the bishop and offers the trade on b3.
11.Ng3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the knight reaches g3, and White castles next.
11…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black takes the square g5 from your pieces.
12.O-O: 12.O-O – you castle and bring your king to safety.
12…Qd6: The queen goes to d6 and connects the rooks.
13.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
13…dxe4: Black trades in the centre and opens the d-file.
14.dxe4: 14.dxe4 – now the bishop on c2 protects the pawn on e4.
14…Rfd8: The rook goes to the open d-file against your queen.
15.Re1: With 15.Re1 you put the rook behind the queen on e2. Stockfish: level (+0.04).

Line 78: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 d5 10.Qe2 h6 11.g4 dxe4 12.dxe4 Na5 13.Bc2 Be6 14.Nxe5 Nd7 15.Nd3

up to 10.Qe2 as line 77

10…h6: A mistake (loss 0.52): Black weakens his kingside, and since the white king is still in the centre, White can attack there with g4. Stockfish sees White at +0.61.
11.g4: Engine move: g4 threatens to push the pawn further and drive away the knight on f6. Stockfish sees White at +0.57.
11…dxe4: Black trades on e4; but your push g4 has gained space on the kingside. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.86).
12.dxe4: White recaptures with the pawn and holds e4. Stockfish still sees White ahead (+0.73).
12…Na5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 12...Na5 attacks the bishop on b3.
13.Bc2: 13.Bc2 – the bishop dodges the knight on a5.
13…Be6: The bishop goes to e6 and eyes c4 and b3.
14.Nxe5: 14.Nxe5 – you take the pawn on e5.
14…Nd7: The knight attacks the knight on e5 and wants to trade it.
15.Nd3: With 15.Nd3 the knight steps aside – you are a pawn up. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.29).

Line 79: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Ne7 10.Ng3 Ng6 11.O-O b5 12.Re1

up to 9.Nf1 as line 78

9…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6, but according to Stockfish misses d5 (loss 0.29).
10.Ng3: The knight reaches g3 and keeps f5 under control – Stockfish's first choice.
10…Ng6: 10...Ng6 sets the knight against your knight on g3. Stockfish wanted h6 (loss 0.09) and sees you slightly ahead (+0.49).
11.O-O: Now White castles; Stockfish's line starts this way too.
11…b5: Black gains space on the queenside and takes a4 from your bishop.
12.Re1: Transposition: this is the position of the main line after Ne7 Re1 Ng6 Nf1 b5 Ng3 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 80: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Ne7 10.Ng3 Ng6 11.O-O Be6 12.d4 h6 13.Be3 Bxb3 14.Qxb3 Qd7 15.Rad1

up to 11.O-O as line 79

11…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish wanted h6 (loss 0.14).
12.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White strikes in the centre at once (+0.58).
12…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black takes the square g5 from your pieces.
13.Be3: 13.Be3 sets itself against the bishop on a7.
13…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
14.Qxb3: 14.Qxb3 – the queen recaptures and aims at b7.
14…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
15.Rad1: With 15.Rad1 you put the rook behind the pawn on d4. Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.75).

Line 81: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Ne7 10.Ng3 Ng6 11.O-O h6 12.d4 Re8 13.Re1

up to 11.O-O as line 80

11…h6: Black takes away the square g5 – Stockfish's first choice.
12.d4: The central break. Stockfish puts the rook on e1 first (Re1, loss 0.14).
12…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
13.Re1: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 82: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Ne7 10.Ng3 Ng6 11.O-O c6 12.Re1

up to 11.O-O as line 81

11…c6: Black prepares d5; Stockfish wanted h6 (loss 0.11).
12.Re1: Transposition to the main line after Ne7 Re1 Ng6 Nf1 c6 Ng3 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 83: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Ng3 h6 11.Nh2 Qd7 12.O-O Ne7 13.Be3 Bxb3 14.Qxb3 Bxe3 15.fxe3

up to 9.Nf1 as line 82

9…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish wanted d5 (loss 0.02).
10.Ng3: The knight reaches g3 – Stockfish's first choice.
10…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces. Stockfish: level (+0.1).
11.Nh2: The knight goes to h2 to press on the knight on f6 later via g4 – Stockfish's first choice.
11…Qd7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen connects the rooks.
12.O-O: 12.O-O – you castle.
12…Ne7: The knight goes to e7 and on to g6.
13.Be3: 13.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7.
13…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
14.Qxb3: 14.Qxb3 – the queen recaptures and aims at b7.
14…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
15.fxe3: With 15.fxe3 you recapture with the f-pawn: the f-file is open for your rook on f1. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 84: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 h6 10.g4 d5 11.Qe2

up to 9.Nf1 as line 83

9…h6: A mistake (loss 0.61): Stockfish wanted d5. Because the white king is still in the centre, White can now attack on the kingside with g4.
10.g4: White attacks on the kingside – Stockfish's first choice (+0.57).
10…d5: 10...d5 strikes back in the centre against your push g4. Stockfish considers it inaccurate (loss 0.35) and sees you clearly ahead (+0.92).
11.Qe2: Transposition: the same position as after d5 Qe2 h6 g4 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 85: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 d6 9.Nf1 Nh5 10.N1h2 Be6 11.Bc2 d5 12.Ng5 Nf6 13.Nxe6 fxe6 14.O-O Qd6 15.Qe2

up to 9.Nf1 as line 84

9…Nh5: Black aims the knight at f4 but misses d5 (loss 0.4).
10.N1h2: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the knight goes to h2 and keeps the squares f3 and g4 under control.
10…Be6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black offers the trade on b3.
11.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
11…d5: Black strikes in the centre with 11...d5 while your knight is on its way.
12.Ng5: 12.Ng5 attacks the bishop on e6.
12…Nf6: The knight returns from h5 to f6 and covers d5.
13.Nxe6: 13.Nxe6 – you take the bishop pair from Black.
13…fxe6: Black recaptures with the f-pawn: he gets the half-open f-file and covers d5, but e6 can become weak.
14.O-O: You castle and bring your king to safety – then the rooks come into play.
14…Qd6: The queen goes to d6 and connects the rooks.
15.Qe2: With 15.Qe2 you develop the queen. You have the bishop pair – Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.42).

Line 86: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 O-O

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 85

7…d6: Black guards e5 and waits with castling.
8.h3: h3 takes the square g4 away from the bishop on c8. Stockfish would have brought the knight to f1 at once (loss 0.2).
8…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O h3 d6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 87: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 Ne7 9.Nf1 Ng6 10.Ng3 O-O

up to 8.h3 as line 86

8…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6; Stockfish wanted Qe7 (loss 0.40).
9.Nf1: The knight continues to f1 and from there to g3 – the typical manoeuvre in the quiet Italian.
9…Ng6: The knight arrives on g6 via e7 and eyes f4 and h4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.49).
10.Ng3: The knights face each other on g3 and g6; Stockfish sees White at +0.5.
10…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O h3 d6 Nf1 Ne7 Ng3 Ng6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 88: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 h6 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Ng3 Qd7 11.Ba4 b5 12.Bc2 d5 13.exd5 Nxd5 14.O-O O-O 15.Re1

up to 8.h3 as line 87

8…h6: Black takes away the square g5; Stockfish wanted Qe7 (loss 0.09).
9.Nf1: The knight continues its journey – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Be6: 9...Be6 offers a trade against your bishop on b3. Stockfish: level (+0.21).
10.Ng3: The knight reaches g3. Stockfish would have played Be3 first (loss 0.10).
10…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
11.Ba4: 11.Ba4 pins the knight on c6 to the queen on d7.
11…b5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black breaks the pin with 11...b5.
12.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
12…d5: Black strikes in the centre with 12...d5 while your knight is on its way.
13.exd5: You trade on d5 and open the e-file for your rook – the centre becomes open.
13…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5 – it eyes c3, e3 and f4.
14.O-O: You castle and bring your king to safety – then the rooks come into play.
14…O-O: Black castles too – level.
15.Re1: With 15.Re1 you set the rook against the pawn on e5. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 89: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 h6 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Ng3 O-O

up to 10.Ng3 as line 88

10…O-O: Transposition: the same position as after O-O h3 d6 Nf1 Be6 Ng3 h6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 90: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 h6 9.Nf1 Ne7 10.Ng3 Ng6 11.O-O O-O

up to 9.Nf1 as line 89

9…Ne7: The knight heads via e7 to g6 – Black plays the same manoeuvre as you with knight to d2–f1–g3.
10.Ng3: 10.Ng3 – your knight goes to g3 as well.
10…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
11.O-O: You castle and bring your king to safety – then the rooks come into play.
11…O-O: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 91: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 Ba7 7.Nbd2 d6 8.h3 Be6 9.Bxe6 fxe6 10.Qb3 Qc8 11.Nf1 a5 12.a4 Qd7 13.Qb5 O-O 14.Ng3 Ne7 15.Be3

up to 8.h3 as line 90

8…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish wanted Qe7 (loss 0.10).
9.Bxe6: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White trades on e6 himself; after fxe6 Black has doubled pawns on the e-file.
9…fxe6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black recaptures with the f-pawn and gets doubled pawns on the e-file.
10.Qb3: 10.Qb3 attacks the pawn on e6 and eyes b7.
10…Qc8: The queen covers b7 and e6 against your queen on b3.
11.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
11…a5: Black gains space on the queenside and threatens a4.
12.a4: 12.a4 stops …a5–a4.
12…Qd7: The queen goes to d7 and covers c6.
13.Qb5: 13.Qb5 attacks the knight on c6.
13…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
14.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
14…Ne7: The knight goes to e7 and on to g6.
15.Be3: With 15.Be3 you offer to trade the bishop on a7. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 92: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 Ba7

up to 6.Bb3 as line 91

6…d6: Black guards e5 and leaves the bishop on c5 for now.
7.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2. Stockfish names castling first but rates both moves the same.
7…O-O: Black castles – Stockfish's own move.
8.h3: h3 takes g4 away from bishop and knight; Stockfish rates it just as well as castling.
8…Ba7: Transposition: the same position as after Ba7 Nbd2 O-O h3 d6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 93: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 Be6 9.O-O h6 10.Re1 Re8

up to 8.h3 as line 92

8…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade. Stockfish narrowly names Re8 first (loss 0.03).
9.O-O: White castles. Stockfish would have traded on e6 first (Bxe6) and given Black doubled pawns (loss 0.15).
9…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
10.Re1: 10.Re1 supports e4 and frees f1.
10…Re8: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 94: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 Be6 9.O-O h6 10.Re1 Bxb3 11.Nxb3 Bb6 12.Nh4 a5 13.Nd2 a4 14.Qf3 Kh7 15.Nc4

up to 10.Re1 as line 93

10…Bxb3: Black trades on b3 and takes the bishop from your attack – in return the a-file opens for you.
11.Nxb3: 11.Nxb3 – the knight recaptures and attacks the bishop on c5.
11…Bb6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to b6.
12.Nh4: 12.Nh4 – the knight heads for f5.
12…a5: Black threatens …a5–a4 against the knight on b3.
13.Nd2: 13.Nd2 – the knight on b3 goes to d2 in time.
13…a4: Black gains space on the queenside.
14.Qf3: 14.Qf3 – the queen comes to the kingside and eyes f6.
14…Kh7: The king goes to h7 and covers g6 and g8.
15.Nc4: With 15.Nc4 you attack the bishop on b6. Stockfish: level (+0.07).

Line 95: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 h6 9.Nf1 Be6 10.Ng3 Bxb3 11.Qxb3 Re8 12.O-O d5 13.exd5 Nxd5 14.Bd2 Qd7 15.Rfe1

up to 8.h3 as line 94

8…h6: Black takes away the square g5; Stockfish wanted Re8.
9.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish would have attacked on the kingside with g4, since the white king is still in the centre (loss 0.16).
9…Be6: Black offers the trade on b3.
10.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
10…Bxb3: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades the bishops.
11.Qxb3: 11.Qxb3 – the queen aims at b7.
11…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
12.O-O: You castle and bring your king to safety – then the rooks come into play.
12…d5: Black strikes in the centre with 12...d5 while your knight is on its way.
13.exd5: You trade on d5 and open the e-file for your rook – the centre becomes open.
13…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5 – it eyes c3, e3 and f4.
14.Bd2: Bd2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
14…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
15.Rfe1: With 15.Rfe1 you set the rook against the pawn on e5. Stockfish: level (−0.08).

Line 96: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 O-O 8.h3 h6 9.Nf1 d5 10.Qe2 a5 11.Ba4 Rb8 12.Bc2 b5 13.Ng3 Be6 14.exd5 Bxd5 15.Be3

up to 9.Nf1 as line 95

9…d5: 9...d5 – Black opens the centre. Stockfish names Re8 first (loss 0.10).
10.Qe2: The queen goes to e2, supports e4 and leaves the d-file, where the rooks will soon stand.
10…a5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...a5 threatens …a5–a4 against the bishop on b3.
11.Ba4: 11.Ba4 attacks the knight on c6.
11…Rb8: 11...Rb8 prepares …b5.
12.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
12…b5: Black gains space on the queenside.
13.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
13…Be6: The bishop goes to e6 and covers d5.
14.exd5: You trade on d5 and open the e-file for your rook – the centre becomes open.
14…Bxd5: The bishop recaptures and eyes the knight on f3.
15.Be3: With 15.Be3 you attack the bishop on c5. Black's pieces are more active – Stockfish sees Black slightly ahead (−0.21).

Line 97: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 Ba7

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 96

7…Ba7: Transposition: the same position as after Ba7 Nbd2 d6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 98: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 h6 8.h3 Ba7

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 97

7…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
8.h3: 8.h3 takes the square g4 from the bishop on c8.
8…Ba7: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 99: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 h6 8.h3 Be6 9.Bxe6 fxe6 10.b4 Ba7 11.O-O O-O 12.a4 Qe8 13.Ra2 Ne7 14.Re1 Nh5 15.Nf1

up to 8.h3 as line 98

8…Be6: Black offers the trade on b3.
9.Bxe6: You trade on e6 – Black's pawn structure changes, and your bishop would have been traded anyway.
9…fxe6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gets the half-open f-file.
10.b4: 10.b4 attacks the bishop on c5.
10…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7 and stays on the diagonal against f2.
11.O-O: You castle and bring your king to safety – then the rooks come into play.
11…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
12.a4: 12.a4 gains space on the queenside.
12…Qe8: The queen heads via e8 for the kingside.
13.Ra2: 13.Ra2 – the rook can come into play along the second rank.
13…Ne7: The knight goes to e7 and on to g6.
14.Re1: 14.Re1 supports e4.
14…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and heads for f4.
15.Nf1: With 15.Nf1 the knight comes over to defend via g3. Stockfish: level (+0.09).

Line 100: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 d6 7.Nbd2 h6 8.h3 O-O

up to 8.h3 as line 99

8…O-O: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 101: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O Ba7 8.Re1 d6 9.h3 h6 10.Nbd2

up to 6.Bb3 as line 100

6…O-O: Black castles first and waits with …d6.
7.O-O: White castles too. Stockfish narrowly names Nbd2 first (loss 0.01).
7…Ba7: Black puts the bishop on a7, where d4 no longer attacks it.
8.Re1: The rook guards e4 and clears f1 for the knight. Stockfish names Nbd2 first (loss 0.06).
8…d6: 8...d6 supports e5 and opens the bishop on c8. Stockfish: level (+0.13).
9.h3: h3 takes g4 away from bishop and knight. Stockfish narrowly names Nbd2 first (loss 0.01).
9…h6: Stockfish's move: Black takes away the square g5.
10.Nbd2: Transposition to the main line: this is the position after d6 O-O O-O Bb3 a6 Nbd2 Ba7 h3 h6 Re1 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 102: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O Ba7 8.Re1 d6 9.h3 Ne7 10.Nbd2

up to 9.h3 as line 101

9…Ne7: Black reroutes the knight to g6; Stockfish wanted h6 (loss 0.27).
10.Nbd2: Transposition to the main line after h3 Ne7 Re1 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 103: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O Ba7 8.Re1 d6 9.h3 Be6 10.Nbd2

up to 9.h3 as line 102

9…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish wanted h6.
10.Nbd2: Transposition to the main line after h3 Be6 Re1 – carry on there. Stockfish would have played Bc2 first (loss 0.13). (transposition)

Line 104: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O Ba7 8.Re1 d6 9.h3 Kh8 10.Nbd2 Nh5 11.Nf1 Qf6 12.N1h2 Nf4 13.Ng4 Qg6 14.Bxf4 exf4 15.d4

up to 9.h3 as line 103

9…Kh8: Black takes his king off the diagonal of the bishop on b3, but according to Stockfish loses time doing so (loss 0.23).
10.Nbd2: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the knight begins its journey via d2 to f1.
10…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and heads for f4.
11.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
11…Qf6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen comes to f6 on the kingside.
12.N1h2: 12.N1h2 – the knight heads for g4.
12…Nf4: The knight jumps to f4 – a strong square in front of your king.
13.Ng4: 13.Ng4 attacks the queen on f6.
13…Qg6: The queen steps aside to g6 and attacks the knight on g4.
14.Bxf4: 14.Bxf4 – you trade off the strong knight on f4.
14…exf4: Black recaptures with the pawn and opens the e-file.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you take the centre; the bishop on a7 runs into the pawn on d4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.29).

Line 105: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O Ba7 8.Re1 d6 9.h3 Re8 10.Nbd2 Be6

up to 9.h3 as line 104

9…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 – the knight heads via f1 for g3.
10…Be6: By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 106: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 a6 6.Bb3 O-O 7.O-O d6

up to 7.O-O as line 105

7…d6: Transposition to the main line after d6 O-O O-O Bb3 a6 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 107: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O d5 7.exd5 Nxd5 8.Re1 Bg4 9.h3 Bh5 10.Nbd2 Nb6 11.Bb3 Qxd3 12.Nxe5 Qf5 13.Nef3 Rad8 14.Qe2 Qc8 15.Ne4

up to 5.d3 as line 106

5…O-O: Black castles before d6. That changes little: you carry on as usual.
6.O-O: King safety first – Stockfish's first choice. In its line d6 and later Re1 follow.
6…d5: Black opens the centre at once with …d5.
7.exd5: White captures – Stockfish's first choice.
7…Nxd5: Black recaptures with the knight; it stands centrally on d5. Stockfish: level (+0.15).
8.Re1: The rook comes to the open e-file and puts pressure on e5. Stockfish narrowly names a4 first (loss 0.03).
8…Bg4: 8...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen on d1.
9.h3: 9.h3 asks the bishop on g4 whether it trades.
9…Bh5: The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
10.Nbd2: 10.Nbd2 develops the knight.
10…Nb6: The knight attacks the bishop on c4.
11.Bb3: 11.Bb3 – the bishop steps aside and stays on the diagonal.
11…Qxd3: 11...Qxd3 – Black takes the pawn on d3.
12.Nxe5: 12.Nxe5 – you take back on e5 and attack the queen on d3.
12…Qf5: The queen steps aside to f5.
13.Nef3: 13.Nef3 – the knight goes back and blocks the bishop on h5.
13…Rad8: The rook goes to the open d-file.
14.Qe2: 14.Qe2 – the queen leaves the d-file.
14…Qc8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen drops back to c8.
15.Ne4: With 15.Ne4 you attack the bishop on c5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.22).

Line 108: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O d5 7.exd5 Nxd5 8.Re1 Bg4 9.h3 Bh5 10.Nbd2 Nb6 11.Bb3 Kh8 12.Ne4 Bd6 13.a4 a5 14.g4 Bg6 15.d4

up to 11.Bb3 as line 107

11…Kh8: 11...Kh8 – Black does not take the pawn on d3 and moves the king off the diagonal of the bishop on b3.
12.Ne4: 12.Ne4 attacks the bishop on c5.
12…Bd6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop steps aside to d6.
13.a4: 13.a4 threatens a4–a5 against the knight on b6.
13…a5: Black holds with 13...a5.
14.g4: 14.g4 attacks the bishop on h5.
14…Bg6: The bishop steps aside to g6 and attacks the knight on e4.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you take the centre. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.29).

Line 109: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O d5 7.exd5 Nxd5 8.Re1 Bg4 9.h3 Bh5 10.Nbd2 Bb6 11.Ne4 f6 12.b4 Kh8 13.b5 f5 14.Neg5 Nxc3 15.Qc2

up to 10.Nbd2 as line 108

10…Bb6: The bishop drops back to b6.
11.Ne4: 11.Ne4 – the knight stands in the centre and eyes c5 and g5.
11…f6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 11...f6 supports e5 and takes the square g5 from the knight.
12.b4: 12.b4 gains space on the queenside.
12…Kh8: The king goes to h8 off the diagonal.
13.b5: 13.b5 attacks the knight on c6.
13…f5: With 13...f5 Black attacks the knight on e4.
14.Neg5: 14.Neg5 – the knight jumps to g5.
14…Nxc3: Black takes on c3 and attacks the queen on d1.
15.Qc2: With 15.Qc2 the queen attacks the knight on c3. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 110: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O d6

up to 6.O-O as line 109

6…d6: Transposition to the main line after d6 O-O O-O – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 111: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O a6 7.Nbd2 d6 8.Bb3

up to 6.O-O as line 110

6…a6: Black makes the retreat square a7; Stockfish wanted d6 (loss 0.04).
7.Nbd2: White sticks to the quiet plan. Stockfish preferred the immediate central break d4 here (loss 0.04).
7…d6: Black guards e5 – Stockfish's own move.
8.Bb3: Transposition to the main line after O-O Bb3 a6 Nbd2 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 112: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O a6 7.Nbd2 Ba7 8.Bb3 d6

up to 7.Nbd2 as line 111

7…Ba7: Black puts the bishop on a7; Stockfish wanted d6.
8.Bb3: The bishop retreats to b3 in advance. Stockfish would have played a4 first (loss 0.14).
8…d6: Transposition to the main line after a6 Nbd2 Ba7 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 113: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O a6 7.Nbd2 Ba7 8.Bb3 d5 9.exd5 Nxd5 10.Nc4 f6 11.Ne3 Be6 12.Nxd5 Bxd5 13.Be3 Bxe3 14.fxe3 Kh8 15.d4

up to 8.Bb3 as line 112

8…d5: Black opens the centre before White has finished developing.
9.exd5: White captures – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5 – it eyes c3, e3 and f4.
10.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and eyes e5. Stockfish would have played Ne4 (loss 0.20).
10…f6: 10...f6 supports e5 against your knight on c4. Stockfish: level (0.00).
11.Ne3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the knight attacks the knight on d5 and offers a trade.
11…Be6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop goes to e6 and protects d5.
12.Nxd5: 12.Nxd5 – you trade the knights.
12…Bxd5: The bishop recaptures and faces your bishop on b3.
13.Be3: 13.Be3 offers to trade the bishop on a7.
13…Bxe3: Black trades his good bishop for your bishop on e3 – afterwards he lacks a defender of the dark squares.
14.fxe3: 14.fxe3 – the f-file is open for your rook on f1.
14…Kh8: The king goes to h8 off the diagonal.
15.d4: With 15.d4 you attack e5. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 114: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Nf6 5.d3 O-O 6.O-O Bb6 7.Bg5 d6 8.Nbd2 a5 9.a4 h6 10.Bh4 g5 11.Bg3 Kg7 12.Bb3 Ba7 13.Nc4 Bg4 14.h3 Bh5 15.Qe2

up to 6.O-O as line 113

6…Bb6: Black retreats the bishop to b6 straight away; Stockfish wanted d6.
7.Bg5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop pins the knight on f6 to the queen.
7…d6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black protects e5 with 7...d6.
8.Nbd2: 8.Nbd2 develops the knight.
8…a5: 8...a5 threatens …a5–a4.
9.a4: 9.a4 stops the pawn on a5.
9…h6: 9...h6 attacks the bishop on g5.
10.Bh4: 10.Bh4 keeps the pin of the knight on f6 to the queen.
10…g5: 10...g5 drives the bishop away but weakens the squares around the black king.
11.Bg3: 11.Bg3 – the bishop drops back.
11…Kg7: 11...Kg7 – the king covers the weakened squares f6 and h6.
12.Bb3: 12.Bb3 – the bishop goes out of reach of …d5.
12…Ba7: The bishop goes to a7.
13.Nc4: 13.Nc4 – the knight stands actively on c4.
13…Bg4: 13...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen.
14.h3: 14.h3 asks the bishop on g4 whether it trades.
14…Bh5: The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
15.Qe2: With 15.Qe2 you break the pin. Stockfish: level (+0.18).

Line 115: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Qe7 5.O-O d6 6.d4 Bb6 7.h3 Nf6 8.Re1 h6 9.a4 a6 10.Na3 O-O 11.d5

up to 4.c3 as line 114

4…Qe7: A trap for Black: the queen guards e5, but Black develops no minor piece and does not attack e4. White can prepare d4 in peace; Stockfish then sees White almost a pawn ahead (+0.98) – that is how much Qe7 gave away.
5.O-O: King safety first, then d4 follows. Stockfish would have played d4 at once, but the difference is small (loss 0.04).
5…d6: The most frequent reply (70 %): Black supports e5. Stockfish names Nf6 first but rates both moves the same.
6.d4: Now the central break: d4 attacks the bishop on c5 with tempo. Stockfish sees White at +0.88.
6…Bb6: The bishop dodges your d4 to b6 and stays active.
7.h3: h3 takes the square g4 away from the bishop on c8. Stockfish would have harassed the bishop on b6 at once with a4 (loss 0.37).
7…Nf6: Black develops the knight – Stockfish's own move.
8.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish names a4 first but rates both moves the same.
8…h6: Black takes away the square g5; Stockfish names castling first.
9.a4: White gains space on the queenside and threatens to chase the bishop on b6 with a5. Stockfish names b4 first (loss 0.34).
9…a6: 9...a6 gives the bishop the square a7.
10.Na3: The knight enters the game via a3. Stockfish names b4 first (loss 0.34).
10…O-O: Black castles; your centre stands strong. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+1.13).
11.d5: Not yet played in the games: White closes the centre and drives away the knight on c6. At depth 30 Stockfish names Ba2 first (loss 0.21), but sees you at +0.92 after d5 – enough of an edge, the line ends here.

Line 116: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Qe7 5.O-O d6 6.d4 Bb6 7.h3 Nf6 8.Re1 O-O 9.a4 a6 10.Na3

up to 8.Re1 as line 115

8…O-O: Black castles – Stockfish's own move. Even so it sees White clearly better (+0.93).
9.a4: White gains space on the queenside – Stockfish's first choice.
9…a6: 9...a6 gives the bishop on b6 the retreat square a7 – Stockfish's first choice. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.92).
10.Na3: The knight enters the game via a3. Stockfish preferred b4 (loss 0.07).

Line 117: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Qe7 5.O-O d6 6.d4 Bb6 7.h3 h6 8.Be3

up to 7.h3 as line 116

7…h6: Black takes away the square g5 but delays his development; Stockfish wanted Nf6 (loss 0.45).
8.Be3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop develops and confronts the bishop on b6. Stockfish sees White at +0.98.

Line 118: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Qe7 5.O-O Nf6 6.d4 Bb6 7.Re1 d6 8.h3

up to 5.O-O as line 117

5…Nf6: Black first develops the knight and attacks e4.
6.d4: The central break attacks the bishop on c5 – Stockfish's first choice.
6…Bb6: The bishop dodges your d4 to b6 and stays active.
7.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish names b4 first but rates both moves the same.
7…d6: 7...d6 supports e5. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+1.01).
8.h3: Transposition: the same position as after d6 d4 Bb6 h3 Nf6 Re1 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 119: 3…Bc5 4.c3 Qe7 5.O-O Bb6 6.b4

up to 5.O-O as line 118

5…Bb6: Black retreats the bishop in advance before d4 can attack it. Stockfish narrowly names Nf6 first (loss 0.09).
6.b4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White gains space on the queenside and wants to push on with a4.

Chapter 2: 3…Nf6

Line 120: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Be6 8.Nbd2 Qd7 9.c3 Rfe8 10.a5 Bxc4 11.Nxc4 b5 12.axb6 axb6 13.Rxa8 Rxa8 14.Bg5 Ne8 15.Bd2

3…Nf6: The Two Knights Defense: Black attacks e4 at once. With 45 % of the games it is almost as frequent as 3...Bc5.
4.d3: The calm answer: e4 is covered and White sticks to his plan. Stockfish agrees – no move is rated higher here.
4…Be7: The more modest bishop move and the most frequent reply (54 %): Black prepares castling and keeps d5 in reserve. Stockfish preferred Bc5 (loss 0.06).
5.O-O: King safety first, then the fight for the centre – Stockfish castles here too.
5…O-O: Black castles too – the most frequent reply (87 %).
6.Re1: The rook guards e4 and clears f1 for the knight. Stockfish names Nc3 first but rates both moves the same.
6…d6: 6...d6 supports e5.
7.a4: White gains space on the queenside and makes the retreat square a2 for the bishop – Stockfish's first choice.
7…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade.
8.Nbd2: The knight guards the bishop on c4 and begins its journey. Stockfish names Bxe6 first (loss 0.06).
8…Qd7: Black connects the rooks and supports the bishop on e6.
9.c3: White prepares d4. Stockfish names h3 first (loss 0.09).
9…Rfe8: 9...Rfe8 puts the rook on the e-file – Stockfish's first choice. Level (+0.04).
10.a5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White gains more space on the queenside.
10…Bxc4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades on c4.
11.Nxc4: 11.Nxc4 – the knight recaptures and stands actively.
11…b5: 11...b5 attacks the knight on c4.
12.axb6: 12.axb6 – you take en passant and open the a-file.
12…axb6: Black recaptures with the a-pawn.
13.Rxa8: 13.Rxa8 – the rooks are traded on the a-file.
13…Rxa8: The rook recaptures.
14.Bg5: 14.Bg5 pins the knight on f6 and wants to trade it to weaken d5.
14…Ne8: The knight retreats to e8 and breaks the pin – it wants to reach d5 via c7.
15.Bd2: With 15.Bd2 your bishop drops back too. Stockfish: level (+0.07).

Line 121: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Be6 8.Nbd2 Nd7 9.a5 Bxc4 10.Nxc4 Re8 11.Ne3 Bf8 12.Bd2 b5 13.axb6 axb6 14.b4 b5 15.Nd5

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 120

8…Nd7: Black pulls the knight back; Stockfish wanted to trade on c4 (Bxc4) (loss 0.27).
9.a5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White gains space on the queenside (+0.4).
9…Bxc4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades on c4.
10.Nxc4: 10.Nxc4 – the knight recaptures and stands actively.
10…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
11.Ne3: 11.Ne3 – the knight heads for d5 or f5.
11…Bf8: The bishop goes to f8 and covers g7 – its best square in the quiet set-up.
12.Bd2: Bd2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
12…b5: Black plays 12...b5 and wants to open the queenside.
13.axb6: 13.axb6 – you take en passant and open the a-file for the rooks.
13…axb6: Black recaptures with the a-pawn – the a-file is open.
14.b4: 14.b4 gains space on the queenside and takes c5 from the knight.
14…b5: Black pushes 14...b5 in return and keeps the queenside fixed.
15.Nd5: With 15.Nd5 you put the knight on the strong square d5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.26).

Line 122: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Be6 8.Nbd2 h6 9.Bxe6 fxe6 10.Nf1 Qd7 11.c3 a5 12.Bd2 Nh5 13.h3 Nf4 14.Bxf4 Rxf4 15.N1h2

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 121

8…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
9.Bxe6: 9.Bxe6 – you trade bishops and give Black a doubled pawn on e6.
9…fxe6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gets the half-open f-file.
10.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
10…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
11.c3: 11.c3 prepares d3–d4 – first the support, then the attack in the centre.
11…a5: 11...a5 holds up your pawn on a4 and secures b4 for the knight.
12.Bd2: Bd2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
12…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and wants to reach f4 – a square in front of your king.
13.h3: 13.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
13…Nf4: The knight jumps to f4 and eyes h3 and g2.
14.Bxf4: 14.Bxf4 – you trade the annoying knight before it builds pressure.
14…Rxf4: The rook recaptures and attacks the knight on f3.
15.N1h2: With 15.N1h2 the knight heads for g4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.23).

Line 123: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 h6 8.c3 Nh7 9.a5 a6 10.Nbd2 Ng5 11.d4 Bg4 12.d5 Nb8 13.h3 Bh5 14.b4 Nd7 15.Bf1

up to 7.a4 as line 122

7…h6: Black takes away the square g5; Stockfish wanted Na5 (loss 0.09).
8.c3: White prepares d4 – Stockfish's first choice.
8…Nh7: Black wants to activate the knight via g5, but according to Stockfish gives something away (loss 0.33); Be6 was better.
9.a5: White gains more space on the queenside – Stockfish's first choice (+0.42).
9…a6: 9...a6 holds up your pawn on a5 and gives the bishop a7.
10.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2. Stockfish preferred the immediate central break d4 (loss 0.19).
10…Ng5: The knight comes to g5 via h7 and attacks the knight on f3 – don't trade it too quickly. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.47).
11.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White strikes in the centre (+0.49).
11…Bg4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 11...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen.
12.d5: 12.d5 attacks the knight on c6 and gains space.
12…Nb8: The knight goes back to b8 and wants to re-enter via d7.
13.h3: 13.h3 asks the bishop on g4 whether it trades.
13…Bh5: The bishop steps aside to h5 and keeps the pin.
14.b4: 14.b4 gains space on the queenside and prepares c4–c5.
14…Nd7: The knight comes back into play via d7 and eyes c5 and f6.
15.Bf1: With 15.Bf1 the bishop drops back. You have more space – Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.51).

Line 124: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Na5 8.Ba2 c5 9.c3 Nc6 10.Nbd2 Be6 11.Nc4 h6 12.Bd2 Rc8 13.h3 b6 14.Bb3 Qd7 15.Ne3

up to 7.a4 as line 123

7…Na5: Stockfish's move: Black attacks the bishop on c4 in order to trade it.
8.Ba2: The bishop steps aside to a2 and stays on the diagonal towards f7 – a4 cleared that square for it. Stockfish's first choice.
8…c5: 8...c5 takes space on the queenside and shuts in your bishop on a2.
9.c3: White prepares d4 – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Nc6: The knight returns to c6 and covers d4 and e5.
10.Nbd2: The knight goes to d2. Stockfish preferred Na3 (loss 0.08).
10…Be6: 10...Be6 offers a trade against your bishop on a2. Stockfish: level (+0.07).
11.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and eyes d6; Stockfish's line also begins with Nc4.
11…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
12.Bd2: Bd2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
12…Rc8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The rook goes to the c-file.
13.h3: 13.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
13…b6: 13...b6 secures the pawn on c5 and closes the queenside.
14.Bb3: 14.Bb3 – the bishop regroups and eyes f7.
14…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
15.Ne3: With 15.Ne3 the knight goes to e3 and eyes d5 and f5. Stockfish: level (+0.07).

Line 125: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Kh8 8.c3 Ng8 9.d4 Bg4 10.d5 Nb8 11.a5 f5 12.exf5 Bxf5 13.Nbd2 c6 14.Ne4 Qc7 15.h3

up to 7.a4 as line 124

7…Kh8: Black takes his king off the diagonal of the bishop on c4 and prepares f5. Stockfish wanted Na5 (loss 0.29).
8.c3: White prepares d4. Stockfish names a5 first (loss 0.1).
8…Ng8: Black clears the way for the f-pawn; Stockfish wanted a5 (loss 0.08).
9.d4: White strikes in the centre. Stockfish names a5 first but rates both moves the same.
9…Bg4: 9...Bg4 pins your knight on f3. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.52).
10.d5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White closes the centre and drives away the knight on c6 (+0.6).
10…Nb8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The knight drops back to b8.
11.a5: 11.a5 gains space on the queenside and takes b6 from the knight.
11…f5: Black strikes in the centre with 11...f5 – he wants to dissolve e4.
12.exf5: 12.exf5 – you take and open the e-file.
12…Bxf5: The bishop recaptures and stands actively on f5.
13.Nbd2: 13.Nbd2 develops the knight and wants to reach e4.
13…c6: 13...c6 attacks your pawn on d5.
14.Ne4: 14.Ne4 – the knight stands strongly on e4 and eyes d6 and g5.
14…Qc7: The queen goes to c7 and covers d6.
15.h3: With 15.h3 you take the square g4 from the bishop on f5. Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.58).

Line 126: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Kh8 8.c3 Bg4 9.h3 Bh5 10.Nbd2 d5 11.exd5 Nxd5 12.a5 a6 13.Ne4 f6 14.Qb3 Bxf3 15.Bxd5

up to 8.c3 as line 125

8…Bg4: Black pins the knight on f3; Stockfish wanted a5 (loss 0.26).
9.h3: White puts the question to the bishop. Stockfish names a5 first (loss 0.02).
9…Bh5: Black keeps the pin on the knight on f3. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.59).
10.Nbd2: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the knight gives f3 extra cover.
10…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...d5 attacks the bishop on c4.
11.exd5: 11.exd5 – you take and attack the knight on c6.
11…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5 – it eyes c3, e3 and f4.
12.a5: 12.a5 gains space on the queenside.
12…a6: With 12...a6 Black stops the pawn on a5.
13.Ne4: 13.Ne4 – the knight stands centrally and eyes c5.
13…f6: 13...f6 supports e5 and covers g5.
14.Qb3: 14.Qb3 puts the queen behind the bishop on c4 against the knight on d5.
14…Bxf3: Black trades on f3 and gives you the bishop pair.
15.Bxd5: Instead of taking back on f3, with 15.Bxd5 you first take the knight. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.41).

Line 127: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O O-O 6.Re1 d6 7.a4 Bg4 8.h3 Bh5 9.c3 d5 10.exd5 Nxd5 11.a5 a6 12.Nbd2 b5 13.axb6 Nxb6 14.g4 Bg6 15.Rxa6

up to 7.a4 as line 126

7…Bg4: Black pins the knight on f3; Stockfish wanted Na5 (loss 0.26).
8.h3: White puts the question to the bishop at once. Stockfish names c3 first (loss 0.05).
8…Bh5: Black keeps the pin on the knight on f3. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.47).
9.c3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White prepares d4 (+0.59).
9…d5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 9...d5 attacks the bishop on c4.
10.exd5: 10.exd5 – you take and attack the knight on c6.
10…Nxd5: The knight recaptures and stands centrally on d5 – it eyes c3, e3 and f4.
11.a5: 11.a5 gains space on the queenside.
11…a6: With 11...a6 Black stops the pawn on a5.
12.Nbd2: 12.Nbd2 develops the knight.
12…b5: 12...b5 attacks the bishop on c4 and gains space.
13.axb6: 13.axb6 – you take en passant and open the a-file for the rooks.
13…Nxb6: The knight recaptures and attacks the bishop on c4.
14.g4: 14.g4 attacks the bishop on h5 and gains space on the kingside.
14…Bg6: The bishop steps aside to g6 and stays on the diagonal against e4.
15.Rxa6: With 15.Rxa6 you take the pawn on a6. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.22).

Line 128: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 Nc6 10.Re1 Re8 11.Nf1 h6 12.h3 Bf8 13.Bb3 b5 14.Ne3 Na5 15.Bc2

up to 5.O-O as line 127

5…d6: Black guards e5 and waits with castling.
6.c3: White prepares d4 and makes the square c2 available to the bishop – Stockfish's first choice.
6…O-O: Black castles – the most frequent reply (77 %).
7.Bb3: The bishop retreats in advance so that Na5 or d5 cannot attack it with tempo. Stockfish preferred a4 (loss 0.12).
7…Na5: The most frequent reply (34 %): Black wants to trade the bishop on b3.
8.Bc2: The bishop steps aside to c2 and stays in play. Stockfish names Ba4 first but rates both moves the same.
8…c5: 8...c5 takes space on the queenside and covers d4.
9.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2. Stockfish would have played h3 first (loss 0.07); the position is level (0.00).
9…Nc6: Stockfish's move: the knight returns from the edge into play.
10.Re1: The rook guards e4 and clears f1 for the knight. Stockfish names h3 first but rates both moves the same.
10…Re8: Black puts the rook on e8; Stockfish wanted Be6.
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish names a3 first (loss 0.05).
11…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
12.h3: h3 takes g4 away from bishop and knight. Stockfish names Bb3 first but rates both moves the same.
12…Bf8: 12...Bf8 covers g7 and clears e7 for the queen. Stockfish: level (0).
13.Bb3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop returns to b3 and aims at f7 again.
13…b5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gains space on the queenside.
14.Ne3: 14.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
14…Na5: The knight attacks the bishop on b3 and wants to trade it.
15.Bc2: The bishop drops back to 15.Bc2. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 129: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 Nc6 10.Re1 Qc7 11.Nf1 Be6 12.Bg5 h6 13.Bh4 d5 14.Ne3 d4 15.Nf5

up to 10.Re1 as line 128

10…Qc7: The queen connects the rooks; Stockfish wanted Be6.
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish narrowly names Nc4 first (loss 0.02).
11…Be6: 11...Be6 develops the bishop. Stockfish: level (+0.09).
12.Bg5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop attacks the knight on f6, which controls d5 and e4.
12…h6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 12...h6 attacks the bishop on g5.
13.Bh4: 13.Bh4 – the bishop keeps the knight on f6 in its sights.
13…d5: Black strikes in the centre with 13...d5 while your knight is on its way.
14.Ne3: 14.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
14…d4: 14...d4 attacks the knight on e3 and gains space.
15.Nf5: With 15.Nf5 the knight jumps to the strong square f5 and attacks the bishop on e7. Stockfish: level (+0.11).

Line 130: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 b5 10.Re1 Re8 11.d4 cxd4 12.cxd4 exd4 13.Nxd4 Qb6 14.N2f3 Bd7 15.b3

up to 9.Nbd2 as line 129

9…b5: Black gains space on the queenside; Stockfish wanted Nc6 (loss 0.19).
10.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish preferred a4 to attack the pawn on b5 (loss 0.12).
10…Re8: 10...Re8 puts the rook on the e-file. Stockfish: level (+0.3).
11.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White strikes in the centre.
11…cxd4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades on d4.
12.cxd4: 12.cxd4 – you recapture and have a pawn centre.
12…exd4: Black takes on d4 again and dissolves your centre.
13.Nxd4: 13.Nxd4 – the knight stands in the centre.
13…Qb6: The queen attacks the knight on d4 and eyes b2.
14.N2f3: 14.N2f3 covers d4 once more.
14…Bd7: The bishop goes to d7 and connects the rooks.
15.b3: With 15.b3 you take the square c4 from the knight on a5. Stockfish: level (+0.18).

Line 131: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 Re8 10.Re1 Bf8 11.Nf1 h6 12.h3 Nc6

up to 9.Nbd2 as line 130

9…Re8: Black puts the rook on e8; Stockfish wanted Nc6.
10.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish narrowly names a3 first (loss 0.02).
10…Bf8: 10...Bf8 covers g7 and frees the e-file for the rook.
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish names a3 first, to prepare b4 (loss 0.09).
11…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces. Stockfish: level (0.00).
12.h3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: h3 takes g4 away from bishop and knight.
12…Nc6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 132: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 Qc7 10.Re1 Nc6

up to 9.Nbd2 as line 131

9…Qc7: The queen guards the pawn on c5; Stockfish wanted Nc6 (loss 0.09).
10.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish names b4 first (loss 0.07).
10…Nc6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. By transposition the game goes on in a line the course already teaches. (transposition)

Line 133: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Na5 8.Bc2 c5 9.Nbd2 Be6 10.d4 exd4 11.cxd4 d5 12.e5 Nd7 13.dxc5 Bxc5 14.Nb3 Nxb3 15.Qd3

up to 9.Nbd2 as line 132

9…Be6: Black develops the bishop; Stockfish wanted Nc6 (loss 0.25).
10.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White strikes in the centre at once.
10…exd4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades on d4.
11.cxd4: 11.cxd4 – you have a pawn centre.
11…d5: 11...d5 – Black holds firm in the centre.
12.e5: 12.e5 attacks the knight on f6 and gains space.
12…Nd7: The knight goes to d7 and attacks e5.
13.dxc5: 13.dxc5 – you take on c5 and open the d-file.
13…Bxc5: The bishop recaptures and stands actively on c5.
14.Nb3: 14.Nb3 attacks the bishop on c5 and the knight on a5.
14…Nxb3: Black trades on b3 and simplifies.
15.Qd3: With 15.Qd3 you attack the knight on b3; together with the bishop on c2 the queen aims at h7. Stockfish: level (+0.11).

Line 134: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 h6 8.Nbd2 Nh7 9.Nc4 Ng5 10.Ne1 b5 11.Ne3 Na5 12.Bc2 c5 13.Nd5 Ne6 14.g3 Nc7 15.Nxe7

up to 7.Bb3 as line 133

7…h6: Black takes away the square g5; Stockfish wanted d5 (loss 0.06).
8.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2. Stockfish preferred Re1 (loss 0.08).
8…Nh7: The knight goes to h7 to become active via g5; Stockfish wanted Na5 (loss 0.26).
9.Nc4: The knight jumps to c4 and eyes d6 and e3 – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Ng5: The knight comes to g5 via h7 and attacks the knight on f3 – don't trade it too quickly. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.59).
10.Ne1: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White moves the knight on f3 out of the way before Black can trade it, and prepares f4.
10…b5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...b5 gains space on the queenside.
11.Ne3: 11.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
11…Na5: The knight attacks the bishop on b3 and wants to trade it.
12.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
12…c5: Black gains more space on the queenside.
13.Nd5: 13.Nd5 attacks the bishop on e7 and stands strongly.
13…Ne6: The knight goes from g5 to e6 and eyes d4 and f4.
14.g3: 14.g3 takes the square f4 from the knight on e6.
14…Nc7: The knight attacks the knight on d5 and wants to trade it.
15.Nxe7: With 15.Nxe7 you take the bishop pair from Black – with check. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.35).

Line 135: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 h6 8.Nbd2 Re8 9.Re1 Bf8 10.Nf1 Be6 11.Ba4 Bd7 12.Ng3 Ne7 13.d4 Bxa4 14.Qxa4 Ng6 15.Qb3

up to 8.Nbd2 as line 134

8…Re8: Black puts the rook on e8; Stockfish wanted Na5 (loss 0.07).
9.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish names h3 first (loss 0.07).
9…Bf8: 9...Bf8 covers g7 and frees the e-file.
10.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish would have played h3 first (loss 0.16).
10…Be6: 10...Be6 offers a trade against your bishop on b3. Stockfish: level (+0.17).
11.Ba4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop avoids the trade and pins the knight on c6 to the rook on e8.
11…Bd7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The bishop sets itself against the bishop on a4.
12.Ng3: The knight has arrived: from g3 it eyes f5 and h5.
12…Ne7: The knight steps aside to e7 and wants to reach g6.
13.d4: 13.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
13…Bxa4: Black trades the bishops.
14.Qxa4: 14.Qxa4 attacks the rook on e8.
14…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
15.Qb3: With 15.Qb3 the queen goes to the diagonal against f7. Stockfish: level (+0.12).

Line 136: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Bg4 8.h3 Bh5 9.Re1 Nd7 10.Be3 Nc5 11.Bxc5 Bxf3 12.Qxf3 dxc5 13.Bd5 Na5 14.a3 c6 15.Ba2

up to 7.Bb3 as line 135

7…Bg4: Black pins the knight on f3; Stockfish wanted d5 (loss 0.25).
8.h3: White puts the question to the bishop at once. Stockfish names Re1 first (loss 0.11).
8…Bh5: Black keeps the pin on the knight on f3.
9.Re1: The rook guards e4. Stockfish preferred Nbd2 (loss 0.18).
9…Nd7: 9...Nd7 breaks the pin and heads for c5 or f6. Stockfish wanted h6 (loss 0.25) and sees you slightly ahead (+0.56).
10.Be3: The bishop develops. Stockfish would have driven away the bishop on h5 with g4 (loss 0.09).
10…Nc5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...Nc5 attacks the bishop on b3.
11.Bxc5: 11.Bxc5 – you give the bishop for the knight.
11…Bxf3: Black first inserts 11...Bxf3 and damages your pawn structure.
12.Qxf3: 12.Qxf3 – the queen recaptures and stands actively.
12…dxc5: Black recaptures on c5 with the pawn and gets doubled pawns.
13.Bd5: 13.Bd5 – the bishop stands strongly on d5 and attacks the knight on c6.
13…Na5: The knight steps aside to a5.
14.a3: 14.a3 takes the square b4 from Black's pieces.
14…c6: 14...c6 drives the bishop away from d5.
15.Ba2: With 15.Ba2 the bishop stays on the diagonal against f7. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.24).

Line 137: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Nd7 8.Be3 Bf6 9.d4 a5 10.h3 h6 11.a4 Re8 12.Nbd2 Nf8 13.Bc4 Ng6 14.d5 Nce7 15.Re1

up to 7.Bb3 as line 136

7…Nd7: Black wants to regroup with Bf6 or Nc5; Stockfish wanted d5 (loss 0.23).
8.Be3: The bishop develops. Stockfish names h3 first (loss 0.09).
8…Bf6: 8...Bf6 aims the bishop at d4. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.55).
9.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White strikes in the centre (+0.55).
9…a5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gains space on the queenside.
10.h3: 10.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
10…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
11.a4: 11.a4 stops …a5–a4.
11…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
12.Nbd2: 12.Nbd2 develops the knight.
12…Nf8: The knight heads via f8 to g6 – a quiet manoeuvre.
13.Bc4: 13.Bc4 – the bishop regroups and eyes f7.
13…Ng6: Black's knight stands on g6 and eyes f4 – the square you want to control with d4 or bishop to e3.
14.d5: 14.d5 attacks the knight on c6 and gains space.
14…Nce7: The knight steps aside to e7 and covers d5.
15.Re1: With 15.Re1 you support e4. You have more space – Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.80).

Line 138: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 Be6 8.Re1 Bxb3 9.Qxb3 b6 10.Bg5 Nd7 11.Bxe7 Nxe7 12.d4 Re8 13.Nbd2 exd4 14.Nxd4 Nc5 15.Qc2

up to 7.Bb3 as line 137

7…Be6: Black offers the bishop trade; Stockfish wanted d5.
8.Re1: The rook guards e4 – Stockfish's first choice.
8…Bxb3: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black trades the bishops.
9.Qxb3: 9.Qxb3 – the queen aims at b7.
9…b6: 9...b6 – Black puts the pawn under the protection of the pawns on a7 and c7.
10.Bg5: 10.Bg5 attacks the knight on f6.
10…Nd7: The knight goes to d7 and breaks the pin.
11.Bxe7: 11.Bxe7 – you trade the bishops.
11…Nxe7: The knight recaptures and wants to reach g6.
12.d4: 12.d4 – now you strike in the centre: this is the plan all the preparation in the quiet Italian is aiming at.
12…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
13.Nbd2: 13.Nbd2 develops the knight.
13…exd4: Black trades on d4 and opens the centre – he gives up the outpost on e5.
14.Nxd4: 14.Nxd4 – the knight stands in the centre.
14…Nc5: The knight attacks the queen on b3 and gains a tempo.
15.Qc2: With 15.Qc2 the queen steps aside and protects e4. Stockfish: level (+0.02).

Line 139: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 O-O 7.Bb3 d5 8.Nbd2 dxe4 9.dxe4 Bc5 10.Qe2 Qe7 11.Nc4 a5 12.Ba4 h6 13.h3 Bd7 14.Bc2 a4 15.Bd2

up to 7.Bb3 as line 138

7…d5: Stockfish's move: Black opens the centre with …d5.
8.Nbd2: The knight guards e4. Stockfish names exd5 first (loss 0.05).
8…dxe4: Black trades on e4 and opens the d-file.
9.dxe4: White recaptures with the pawn – Stockfish's first choice.
9…Bc5: 9...Bc5 aims the bishop at f2. Stockfish: level (0.00).
10.Qe2: The queen guards e4. Stockfish names Ba4 first but rates both moves the same.
10…Qe7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen goes to e7.
11.Nc4: 11.Nc4 – the knight stands actively and eyes e5 and d6.
11…a5: Black gains space on the queenside.
12.Ba4: 12.Ba4 attacks the knight on c6.
12…h6: Black takes the square g5 from your pieces – no bishop or knight can bother him there.
13.h3: 13.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
13…Bd7: The bishop goes to d7 and covers c6.
14.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
14…a4: Black gains more space on the queenside.
15.Bd2: With 15.Bd2 you develop the last bishop. Stockfish: level (0).

Line 140: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Be7 5.O-O d6 6.c3 Na5 7.Bb5 Bd7 8.Bxd7 Qxd7 9.c4 c5 10.a3 Nc6 11.Nc3 O-O 12.Rb1 a6 13.Bg5 h6 14.Bxf6 Bxf6 15.h3

up to 6.c3 as line 139

6…Na5: Black attacks the bishop on c4 even before castling.
7.Bb5: The bishop steps aside to b5 with check (Bb5+) – Stockfish's first choice.
7…Bd7: 7...Bd7 attacks your bishop on b5. Stockfish narrowly names c6 first and sees you slightly ahead (+0.27).
8.Bxd7: White trades the bishops – Stockfish's first choice.
8…Qxd7: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. The queen recaptures.
9.c4: 9.c4 secures d5 and gains space.
9…c5: Black holds with 9...c5 and secures d4.
10.a3: 10.a3 prepares b2–b4.
10…Nc6: The knight returns to c6 and covers d4.
11.Nc3: 11.Nc3 develops the knight and covers d5.
11…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
12.Rb1: 12.Rb1 – the rook backs b2–b4 too.
12…a6: Black plays 12...a6 and prepares …b5.
13.Bg5: 13.Bg5 attacks the knight on f6.
13…h6: 13...h6 attacks the bishop on g5.
14.Bxf6: 14.Bxf6 – you trade the bishop for the knight.
14…Bxf6: The bishop recaptures on f6 and has the long diagonal.
15.h3: With 15.h3 you take the square g4 from the queen. Stockfish: level (+0.12).

Line 141: 3…Nf6 4.d3 Bc5 5.c3

up to 4.d3 as line 140

4…Bc5: Black puts the bishop on c5 after all. After c3 you are in the main line of the course.
5.c3: Transposition: this is exactly the position after Bc5 c3 Nf6 d3 – carry on there. (transposition)

Line 142: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 Qe7 8.Re1 Bg7 9.Nbd2 O-O 10.h3 Bd7 11.Nf1 Rae8 12.Ng3

up to 4.d3 as line 141

4…h6: Black takes the square g5 away from White's pieces. Stockfish wanted Bc5 (loss 0.02).
5.O-O: White castles. Stockfish names c3 first (loss 0.03).
5…d6: Black guards e5 – the most frequent reply (91 %).
6.c3: White prepares d4. Stockfish names a4 first (loss 0.04).
6…g6: Black wants to put the bishop on g7 but loses time doing so: Stockfish wanted Be7 (loss 0.43).
7.d4: The right answer to the slow set-up: White takes the centre. Stockfish's first choice (+0.62).
7…Qe7: Black holds e5; Stockfish names exd4 first (loss 0.06).
8.Re1: The rook guards e4 – Stockfish's first choice.
8…Bg7: The bishop arrives on g7 on the long diagonal.
9.Nbd2: The knight sets off via d2. Stockfish names a4 first (loss 0.11).
9…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
10.h3: h3 takes the square g4 away from the bishop on c8. Stockfish names a4 first but rates both moves the same.
10…Bd7: Black develops the bishop; Stockfish wanted a5 (loss 0.13).
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1. Stockfish names a4 first but rates both moves the same.
11…Rae8: 11...Rae8 puts the rook behind e5. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.88).
12.Ng3: The knight reaches g3 – Stockfish's first choice. White is clearly better (+0.91).

Line 143: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 Qe7 8.Re1 Bg7 9.Nbd2 O-O 10.h3 Nh7 11.Nf1 Ng5 12.Bxg5

up to 10.h3 as line 142

10…Nh7: Black wants to bring the knight to g5; Stockfish wanted a5 (loss 0.25).
11.Nf1: The knight goes to f1 – Stockfish's first choice.
11…Ng5: The knight comes to g5 via h7 and attacks the knight on f3 – don't trade it too quickly. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.82).
12.Bxg5: Engine move, not yet played in the games: White trades off the annoying knight at once. At depth 30 Stockfish sees you at +0.85 here – enough of an edge, the line ends here.

Line 144: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 Qe7 8.Re1 Bg7 9.Nbd2 O-O 10.h3 Nh5 11.Nf1 a5 12.b3 a4 13.bxa4 Re8 14.Rb1 Nf6 15.Ng3

up to 10.h3 as line 143

10…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and heads for f4.
11.Nf1: The knight heads via f1 for g3 or e3.
11…a5: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black gains space on the queenside.
12.b3: 12.b3 – you secure the queenside against …a4.
12…a4: Black pushes 12...a4 anyway and opens the queenside.
13.bxa4: 13.bxa4 – you take the pawn.
13…Re8: Black puts the rook on the e-file and supports e5 – he is getting ready for d4.
14.Rb1: 14.Rb1 puts the rook on the open b-file against b7.
14…Nf6: The knight returns to f6 and attacks e4.
15.Ng3: With 15.Ng3 your knight stands well, and for now you are a pawn up. Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.65).

Line 145: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 Qe7 8.Re1 Bg7 9.Nbd2 O-O 10.h3 Kh8 11.b4

up to 10.h3 as line 144

10…Kh8: The king goes to h8 and frees g8 for the knight.
11.b4: With 11.b4 you gain space on the queenside. Stockfish sees you clearly ahead (+0.98) – the line ends here.

Line 146: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 Qe7 8.Re1 Bg7 9.Nbd2 O-O 10.h3 Qd8 11.Bb3 Re8 12.d5 Nb8 13.Nc4 b5 14.Ncd2 a5 15.a4

up to 10.h3 as line 145

10…Qd8: The queen goes back; Stockfish names a5 first but rates both moves the same.
11.Bb3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop retreats to b3 in advance.
11…Re8: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black puts the rook on the e-file.
12.d5: 12.d5 attacks the knight on c6 and gains space.
12…Nb8: The knight goes back to b8 and wants to re-enter via d7.
13.Nc4: 13.Nc4 – the knight stands actively and eyes d6.
13…b5: 13...b5 attacks the knight on c4.
14.Ncd2: The knight drops back to d2.
14…a5: Black gains space on the queenside.
15.a4: With 15.a4 you attack the pawn on b5. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.47).

Line 147: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g6 7.d4 exd4 8.cxd4 Bg7 9.Nc3 O-O 10.Bd3 Bg4 11.Be3 Nd7 12.Be2 Nb6 13.d5 Ne5 14.Nxe5 Bxe2 15.Qxe2

up to 7.d4 as line 146

7…exd4: Stockfish's move: Black gives up the centre and opens the diagonal for his bishop.
8.cxd4: White recaptures with the c-pawn and now has a broad pawn centre.
8…Bg7: The bishop arrives on g7 and aims at d4.
9.Nc3: The knight guards e4 and reaches its best square. Stockfish sees White at +0.6.
9…O-O: Black castles; your centre with d4 and e4 stands strong. Stockfish sees you slightly ahead (+0.69).
10.Bd3: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the bishop drops back to d3 and gives e4 extra cover.
10…Bg4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 10...Bg4 pins the knight on f3 to the queen.
11.Be3: 11.Be3 develops the last bishop and covers d4.
11…Nd7: The knight goes to d7 and on to b6.
12.Be2: 12.Be2 breaks the pin on the knight on f3.
12…Nb6: The knight goes to b6 and eyes c4.
13.d5: 13.d5 attacks the knight on c6 and gains space.
13…Ne5: The knight jumps to e5 and attacks the knight on f3.
14.Nxe5: 14.Nxe5 – you trade; your knight now attacks the bishop on g4.
14…Bxe2: Black trades on e2 and simplifies.
15.Qxe2: With 15.Qxe2 you recapture; Black wins back the knight on e5. You have more space – Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.64).

Line 148: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O d6 6.c3 g5 7.Nbd2 Bg7 8.Bb3 O-O 9.Nc4 Be6 10.Re1 a5 11.a4 Qd7 12.h3 Rad8 13.Bc2 Qc8 14.Ne3 d5 15.Qe2

up to 6.c3 as line 147

6…g5: 6...g5 – an unusual push: Black wants to gain space on the kingside.
7.Nbd2: 7.Nbd2 develops the knight.
7…Bg7: The bishop goes to g7 on the long diagonal.
8.Bb3: 8.Bb3 – the bishop goes out of reach of …d5.
8…O-O: Black castles and brings his king to safety before the centre opens.
9.Nc4: 9.Nc4 – the knight stands actively. Stockfish names h3 first (loss 0.09).
9…Be6: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. 9...Be6 attacks the knight on c4.
10.Re1: 10.Re1 supports e4.
10…a5: Black gains space on the queenside.
11.a4: 11.a4 stops …a5–a4.
11…Qd7: Black's queen goes to d7 and connects the rooks – she covers e6 and eyes h3.
12.h3: 12.h3 takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
12…Rad8: The rook goes to d8 and prepares …d5.
13.Bc2: The bishop retreats to c2 and stays on the diagonal towards h7 – it covers e4.
13…Qc8: The queen goes to c8 and eyes h3.
14.Ne3: 14.Ne3 – the knight eyes d5 and f5.
14…d5: Black strikes in the centre with 14...d5 while your knight is on its way.
15.Qe2: With 15.Qe2 you develop the queen. Stockfish: level (+0.10).

Line 149: 3…Nf6 4.d3 h6 5.O-O g6 6.d4 exd4 7.Nxd4 Ne5 8.Bb3 Bc5 9.Kh1 d6 10.Nc3 Nh5 11.f3 Qh4 12.Nce2 Bd7 13.c3 O-O-O 14.Be3 f5 15.Bc2

up to 5.O-O as line 148

5…g6: A mistake (loss 0.48): Black loses time, and White can open the centre at once with d4. Stockfish wanted Bc5.
6.d4: Engine move, not yet played in the games: the central break punishes the slow development (+0.66).
6…exd4: From here Stockfish plays on alone (depth 30) – the games go no further. Black takes on d4.
7.Nxd4: 7.Nxd4 – the knight stands in the centre.
7…Ne5: 7...Ne5 attacks the bishop on c4.
8.Bb3: 8.Bb3 – the bishop steps aside.
8…Bc5: The bishop attacks the knight on d4.
9.Kh1: 9.Kh1 – the king leaves the diagonal of the bishop on c5.
9…d6: Black protects the bishop with 9...d6.
10.Nc3: 10.Nc3 develops the knight.
10…Nh5: The knight goes to h5 and heads for f4 or g3.
11.f3: 11.f3 supports e4 and takes the square g4 from Black's pieces.
11…Qh4: The queen comes to h4 to attack your king.
12.Nce2: 12.Nce2 covers the squares g3 and f4.
12…Bd7: The bishop goes to d7 and prepares castling long.
13.c3: 13.c3 supports the knight on d4.
13…O-O-O: Black castles long – the kings stand on opposite sides.
14.Be3: bishop to d2 develops the last bishop and connects the rooks.
14…f5: 14...f5 strikes in the centre.
15.Bc2: With 15.Bc2 you protect e4. Stockfish sees you ahead (+0.67).