Caro-Kann Defense: Two Knights Variation | Opening Repertoire

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The Caro–Kann Defense is a chess opening characterised by the moves: 1.e4 c6. It is classified as a “Semi-Open Game” like the Sicilian Defence and French Defence, although it is thought to be more solid and less dynamic than either of those openings. It often leads to good endgames for Black, who has the better pawn structure.

This is another video by RCA guest coach IM Asaf Givon in his series of ‘Opening Repertoires’. In this video lesson, he explains the opening variation for White in the Caro-Kann Defense, the Two Knights Variation. It follows the moves 1.e4 c6 2.Nc3 d5 3.Nf3 (or 2.Nf3 d5 3.Nc3).

It was played by Bobby Fischer in his youth, but has since declined in popularity. White’s intention is to benefit from rapid development as well as to retain options regarding the d-pawn. Black’s logical and probably best reply is 3…Bg4. After 4.h3 Bxf3 5.Qxf3, the positional continuation, Black has the option of 5…Nf6 or 5…e6. The Retreat Line 4…Bh5 is playable but Black must be careful.

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