Benko Gambit Question: dxc5 - Chess Forums

lilcasual

Oct 3, 2022

0

#1

Hello! I have a question about using the Benko Gambit, this is one of the first openings that I want to try and understand fully.

What should I do in the following scenario:

1. D4, NF6

2. C4, C5

3. Instead of White moving to D5, they take by dxc5.

Should I proceed to set up the benko by going B5? Is it possible to set up the benko with white's pawn take at D5 still?

LM_player

Oct 3, 2022

0

#2

Definitely not. The Benko Gambit is only playable if White advances forward with 3. d5.

If White plays something else, you have to change your plan.

If White takes with 3. dxc5, play 3...e6 which facilitates the eventual recapture of the pawn by opening up your dark-squared bishop.

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. dxc5!? e6! 3. b4? a5! 4. Bd2 axb4 5. Bxb4 Na6! Black is poised to recapture with a far better position.

lilcasual

Oct 3, 2022

0

#3

LM_player wrote:

Definitely not. The Benko Gambit is only playable if White advances forward with 3. d5.

If White plays something else, you have to change your plan.

If White takes with 3. dxc5, play 3...e6 which facilitates the eventual recapture of the pawn by opening up your dark-squared bishop.

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. dxc5!? e6! 3. b4? a5! 4. Bd2 axb4 5. Bxb4 Na6! Black is poised to recapture with a far better position.

I appreciate the suggestion!

sndeww

Oct 3, 2022

0

#4

3...e6 is the principled way to get back the pawn, but if you want to be a funny man you can also play the alternative, 3...Na6!?

I enjoy playing such position from the white side as well with 1.Nf3 d5 2.c4 dxc4 3.Na3!?