Italian Game: Two Knights Defense, Polerio Defense

A sharp and aggressive chess opening, the Italian Game: Two Knights Defense, Polerio Defense leads to tactical battles and exciting play.

The opening is characterized by an early attack on the f7-square, with White's knight on g5 and bishop on c4, putting pressure on Black's kingside. Black's main idea is to counterattack in the center with d5, sacrificing a pawn to open lines and gain activity for their pieces. The Polerio Defense, named after the 16th-century Italian chess player Giulio Cesare Polerio, is a specific variation of the Two Knights Defense where Black plays Na5, attacking the bishop on c4 and preparing to recapture the pawn on d5 with their knight.

This opening can lead to a variety of pawn structures and middlegame positions, depending on how both players choose to continue. White has several options to maintain the pawn on d5 or to give it back in exchange for piece activity and development. Black, on the other hand, can choose between different plans, such as regaining the pawn immediately or focusing on piece play and coordination.

The Polerio Defense is considered to be a double-edged and risky choice for both sides, as it can lead to sharp tactical battles and unbalanced positions. However, it can also provide exciting and challenging games for players who are well-prepared and enjoy fighting chess.