1.d4 — the closed and Indian games
Semi-Slav Defence
1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3 e6ECO D43–D49
Black supports d5 with both …c6 and …e6, building one of the toughest, most theory-rich structures in chess. It ranges from the razor-sharp Botvinnik and Moscow lines to the solid Meran, with a strong central counterpunch.
Key ideas
- The …c6/…e6 pawn duo is a fortress around d5 that later uncorks the …c5 or …e5 break.
- The problem of the light-squared bishop (hemmed in by e6) is central — freeing it with …dxc4 and …b5 is a main plan.
- The Botvinnik and Moscow variations lead to some of the sharpest forced theory in all of chess.
Who it suits
Ambitious players who want a combative, deeply-analysed defence that plays for a win with Black.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Semi-Slav Defence move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer