How Karpov Won With The Scandinavian!
Why is the Scandinavian is so easy to learn and master, and so effective against amateurs and masters?
There are four key reasons:
1. You virtually force a specific pawn structure in the Scandinavian. This means that you only need to master one type of position.
2. Your first 10-15 moves in the Scandinavian are generally the same (or similar) setups, with familiar middlegame and endgame plans from there.
3. You will often gain a time advantage early in the game. You can play standard ideas quickly, and rely on your greater experience and understanding of the positions.
This position is from a recent online game of mine vs. a 2600+ GM. The position is equal, but I spent less than 10 seconds to reach this middlegame, whereas my opponent needed a lot more time.
4. You can master the Scandinavian relatively quickly, as there’s not a lot of opening theory to learn. As an opening ‘shortcut’, your opponents won’t be as prepared or comfortable as in main line openings.
This position comes from a game where an IM, playing White, went for 8.a3 and then 9.h3 in consecutive moves! If that doesn't communicate discomfort and the lack of a clear plan, I don't know what does...
Now I’d like to give you a look inside my Grandmaster secrets within ‘Play The Strongest Scandinavian’. In fact, I recorded a special complimentary video just for you, my dear students!
You can study my analysis of Karpov's Scandinavian win against a fellow Grandmaster here.
He even used one of the 'alternative repertoires' I recommend in the course!
Enjoy the lesson
Your Chess Trainer,
GM Max
