Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Accepted, Scheveningen Formation

Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Accepted, Scheveningen Formation

A sharp and aggressive chess opening that leads to open positions and tactical battles, often favored by club-level players.

1. e4 2. c5 3. d4 4. cxd4 5. c3 6. dxc3 7. Nxc3 8. Nc6 9. Nf3 10. e6 11. Bc4 12. d6

The opening is characterized by an early pawn sacrifice by White to accelerate their piece development and create an imbalance in the position. White offers a pawn on d4, which Black captures, and then White plays c3, offering another pawn. Black accepts the gambit by capturing on c3, and White recaptures with their knight. The game continues with both sides developing their pieces and fighting for central control.

This formation is named after the famous Scheveningen Variation of the Sicilian Defense, as it shares some similarities in pawn structure and piece placement. The main difference is that White has sacrificed a pawn for rapid development and attacking chances. White's main idea is to exploit their lead in development and open lines for their pieces, while Black aims to consolidate their extra pawn and neutralize White's initiative.

The opening can lead to sharp tactical battles, as both sides have their chances to create threats and counter-threats. It is essential for both players to be well-prepared and familiar with the typical plans and tactics that can arise from this opening.

In general, this opening is more popular among club-level players, as it can catch opponents off-guard and lead to exciting games. However, it is less common at the highest level, as top players are usually well-prepared to defend against White's early aggression and can often consolidate their extra pawn advantage.

Frequency: 0.6 %Stockfish score: -0.1, depth 45
Games Statistics:
White/Draws/Black
48%
5.7%
46.3%
Bookmoves score:
RateWhiteBlack
0...180057.856.5
1800...200059.156.9
2000...220057.557.5
2200...250055.757.1
2500...52.250.9

Variations:

Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Accepted, Sozin Formation

The Sicilian Defense: Smith-Morra Gambit Accepted, Sozin Formation is a sharp and aggressive chess opening that leads to highly tactical and complex positions.

Frequency: 4 %