Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense

A solid and flexible chess opening, countering the Queen's Gambit with a strong pawn structure and active piece play.

1. d4 2. d5 3. c4 4. dxc4 5. Nf3 6. a6

The opening is attributed to the legendary Russian chess player Alexander Alekhine, known for his aggressive and tactical style. In this variation, Black accepts White's gambit and captures the pawn on c4. White then develops their knight to f3, attacking the pawn on d4 and preparing to recapture on c4. Black responds with a6, a flexible move supporting a future b5 pawn push or allowing the bishop to be developed to a7.

The main idea is to create a solid pawn structure for Black while allowing active piece play. By accepting the gambit, Black creates a pawn majority in the center, supporting their pieces and restricting White's activity. The a6 move provides options for Black's light-squared bishop, which can be developed to a7 or b7, depending on the position.

White's main plan is to regain the pawn on c4 and establish a strong presence in the center by developing their pieces quickly and coordinating their forces to pressure Black's position. White should also be mindful of Black's potential pawn breaks, such as b5 or e5, which can help Black free their position and create counterplay.

Overall, this opening is a solid and flexible choice for Black, offering a good balance between pawn structure and piece activity. It can lead to rich and complex middlegame positions, where both sides have chances for victory.

Frequency: 1.3 %Stockfish score: 0.3, depth 44
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
51.5%
9.6%
38.8%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...180061.451.7
1800...200063.052.5
2000...220060.554.3
2200...250056.553.7
2500...57.649.1

Variations:

Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense, Haberditz Variation

This chess opening features aggressive pawn play and early knight development, leading to sharp play and tactical battles.

Frequency: 17.1 %

Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense, Borisenko-Furman Variation

The Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense, Borisenko-Furman Variation is a chess opening that involves accepting the gambit and adopting a counterattacking strategy.

Frequency: 5.6 %

Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense, Alatortsev Variation

The Queen's Gambit Accepted: Alekhine Defense, Alatortsev Variation is a chess opening that involves sacrificing a pawn to gain central control and develop pieces quickly.

Frequency: 0.3 %