Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Gligoric System, Keres Variation

The Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Gligoric System, Keres Variation is a strategic chess opening that aims to control the center and develop the pieces harmoniously.

The Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Gligoric System, Keres Variation begins with the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Bd3 d5 6. Nf3 c5 7. O-O b6.

In this opening, Black's third move, Bb4, pins White's knight on c3, preventing the immediate pawn capture on d4. White's fourth move, e3, supports the pawn on d4 and prepares to develop the light-squared bishop to d3. Black's fifth move, O-O, castles kingside, ensuring the safety of the king and connecting the rooks.

After Black's sixth move, c5, Black challenges White's central pawn on d4, aiming to undermine White's control of the center. White's seventh move, O-O, castles kingside, mirroring Black's move and completing the development of the king.

Black's final move in this sequence, b6, prepares to fianchetto the dark-squared bishop on b7, reinforcing control over the central squares and potentially putting pressure on White's pawn structure.

The Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Gligoric System, Keres Variation is a flexible opening that allows both players to develop their pieces harmoniously while maintaining a solid pawn structure. It often leads to strategic battles where both sides aim to control the center and exploit any weaknesses in the opponent's position.