The Correct way to Learn the Najdorf Sicilian
Good morning Chess.commers!
It's clear that the Najdorf Sicilian is an immensely complex opening with many variations, structures, plans and themes. Named after Polish-born Argentinean Grandmaster Miguel Najdorf , this is a staple in modern elite chess with leading proponents such as Maxime Vachier-Lagrave.
How does one go about trying to learn one of the most complicated openings in chess?
Against sidelines black should know concrete lines and we can learn some themes arising from these variations.
In the main lines we get a feel of the pawn structure, typical piece play, and how to repel white's attack.
I also recommended model games and books for educational purposes.
It's practically impossible to squeeze in the vast theory of the Najdorf in this blog. I believe it's far more effective to learn the Najdorf through various selected model games.
Sidelines
Conclusions:
- Black can meet early queen excursions reliably with a Dragondorf set-up (g6).
- The early 6.Rg1 (idea g4-g5) can be nicely met with e5 and then d5 breaking in the center.
- Executing the one-two combo e5! Be3 then Rxc3! is a powerful theme to know as Rxc3 sacs open the door for black to harass white's king.
- Black knight on the edge isn't particularly weak in many cases.
- Black's long term goal is to squeeze white with the bishop pair.
- Black can use the the modern prophylactic move h5 to prevent g4 in some cases.
For further reading:
I recommend for players first trying to grasp the Najdorf to read Starting Out: The Sicilian Najdorf order to fully understand the plans before moving on to dense theory.
For the young aspiring player to move on to learning the modern theory I recommend Vigorito's Playing the Najdorf: A Practical Repertoire . This is the most serious book but it's important to realize what your level is and the amount of dedication you are planning to commit to studying the Najdorf. If you want to take in slowly, go with less rigorous books.
But if you can get you hands on an affordable used copy on amazon of Winning with the Najdorf, don't miss the chance! Despite this book being several decades old this may be the most useful book for the vast majority players trying to tackle the Najdorf. GM Daniel King does a resplendent job of explaining all the relevant ideas in the Najdorf and covers ALL the serious lines as well. Theory is outdated, ideas certainly aren't.
