1.e4 — the open games
Petrov (Russian) Defence
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6ECO C42–C43
Instead of defending e5, Black counterattacks e4 at once. The symmetrical structures that arise are famously solid — the Petrov is the classical way to play for equality with Black against 1.e4, and a favourite of players who want a rock at the top level.
Key ideas
- Black meets 3.Nxe5 with 3…d6 and 4…Nxe4, reaching a balanced, symmetrical position.
- White tries for a small edge with 3.d4 or the sharp lines, but Black's setup is hard to crack.
- Understanding the …Nxe4 tactic (don't grab e5 too early) is the one thing every Petrov player must know.
Who it suits
Solid players who want a reliable, low-theory answer to 1.e4 and don't mind symmetrical positions.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Petrov (Russian) Defence move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer