1.d4 — the closed and Indian games
Englund Gambit
1.d4 e5ECO A40
A provocative pawn sacrifice against 1.d4: Black throws in …e5 at once to open lines and set traps. Dubious against precise play, it's a dangerous surprise weapon in blitz and against unprepared opponents, aiming for quick piece activity and cheap tricks on the e-file.
Key ideas
- After 2.dxe5 Black plays …Nc6 and …Qe7 to hound the e5-pawn and the e-file.
- The famous trap …Qb4+ / …Qxb2 catches the greedy and the unwary.
- Sound only as a surprise — Black must accept slightly worse odds for practical chances.
Who it suits
Gambiteers and blitz players who want to drag 1.d4 players into a sharp, unfamiliar fight.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Englund Gambit move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer