Answering a student's opening query (based on a game between Hazai and Csom (1975))
A student's question regarding position from the following diagram:
In the game below between Hazai and Csom from 1975, White played 7.Nf3, instead of e4-e5, which is in the diagram.
I am wondering what is the best reply for Black if White plays an early 7. e5 (instead of 7.Nf3). If Black defends with Bb7 or Qc7, is the position still equal?
My answer:
Yes, with this move White could have tried some activity, having agressive B like on g5 and a couple of other developed pieces, but it is not sufficient, yes, the simplest defense is the natural Bb7, and Bk is even better, since White can´t continue well the attack he had started. Qc7 instead of Bb7 falls to Nb5 or Nd5.
