Benoni Defense: Old Benoni, Schmid Variation

This chess opening is characterized by an early pawn push to challenge the center and a fianchettoed kingside bishop, offering a solid and flexible setup for Black.

The opening is a variation of the Benoni Defense, which is a counterattacking system for Black against 1.d4. In this particular variation, Black aims to challenge White's central pawn structure by playing an early c5 and d6, followed by the fianchetto of the kingside bishop with g6. This setup can lead to a flexible pawn structure for Black, allowing for various pawn breaks and piece play.

The Schmid Variation is named after the German International Master Lothar Schmid, who contributed to the development of this opening. It is considered a solid and somewhat passive choice for Black, as it does not immediately create imbalances or sharp tactical battles. However, it can lead to a rich middlegame with chances for both sides.

White's most common response is to play Nc3, supporting the d5 pawn and preparing to develop the light-squared bishop. Black can then choose between several plans, such as playing e6 to challenge the d5 pawn, or developing the knight to d7 and the dark-squared bishop to g7.

The Schmid Variation is not as popular as other lines in the Benoni Defense, but it can be a good choice for players who prefer a solid and flexible setup with chances for counterplay. It has been employed by several strong players, including former World Champion Anatoly Karpov and Grandmaster Alexander Morozevich.