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The Ruy Lopez-Exchange-Alekhine variation

  • attaxk
  • | Apr 22, 2008
  • | 1308 views
  • | 6 comments

The Alekhine variation of the exchange variation in the Ruy Lopez, after 1.e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4.Bxc6 dxc6, is 5.d4 immediately challenging the center. The ideas again are very similar to the other main variations following the Ruy Lopez exchange. This variation is considered inferior to 5.0-0, as theory and practice has shown that white is better, after 5.0-0 followed by d4. It reaches again a tactical rather than positional advantage, but the position before the fifth proves that white has the time and space to improve his position before the move d4 is made. It is rarely seen at high level games these days. This is why it does not really require deeper analysis. Take a look at the next diagram:

I have included a game where white applied the move 5.d4 so early. Again play is drawish if handled correctly by both sides.




















Comments


  • 19 months ago

    PUNTHAMURRA

    Thankyou we appreciate every bit of effort you guys put in.

  • 4 years ago

    figrock

    Thanx for the post.

  • 4 years ago

    andrewsologuitar

    why is it called alekhine?wot is alekhine defence?
  • 4 years ago

    attaxk

    It actually does not, as after 38..Rxc3+ 39 Bxc3 Bxa4 40.Bxa5, in fact white is a pawn up, and could convert to a winnning endgame. 38...Rxc3+ would be a great error even though it does not lose material. The matter is more positional. White is better.
  • 4 years ago

    CHEZZKlNG101

    move 38... Rc3 would have won black some material with a discovered attack on whites rook.
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