QGD Tarrasch Defense

Sort:
Laskernator

I've been trying to play Queen Gambits lately, going for Capablanca's freeing maneuver. I saw a game of his vs Frank Marshall in which he employs the Tarrasch Defense

1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 c5

Marshall played 5. cxd5 and all the books agree, however when I tried this vs a 1700 he played 

So it looks like Black is going down a pawn in the opening. The rest of the game went like this... 

Anyways, my question is how else to play the opening variation my higher rated opponent employed? Any and all advice/constructive feedback on the game would be appreciated!

Also here's that Frank Marshall vs Capablanca game I was talking about...



 

 



Scottrf

Try d4 before Bxc5.

Laskernator

I thought about this move, but does White have a good response with Ne4? Looking for that juicy d6 square with check and forcing the dark bishop off the board.

ViktorHNielsen

I'm not sure, but 4... dxc4 seems legal. The c5-pawn won't run away

EDIT: after 4... d4! 5. Ne4 Bxc5, black has the theme Qa5+

Scottrf
Laskernator

Ok, I saw this, I guess I was just hoping for something where I don't have to give up that dark squared Bishop, but I guess Black ends up with a spatial plus in the center as compensation.

Scottrf

Yeah and easy development.

Laskernator

I also thought 4... dxc4 and was wondering if Black would be ok giving up casteling rights?

Scottrf
Laskernator wrote:

I also thought 4... dxc4 and was wondering if Black would be ok giving up casteling rights?

Probably fine, but the game might be dull.

Courtney-P

4. dxc5 d4 is a critical move.

mnag

After 4. ... d4  5 Ne4 just develop with 5. ... Nc6 and Nf6. Black is just fine, you will recover the pawn later. 5. ... Bxc5 is not so good.

TwoMove

Aagaard recommends 4...d4 and after 5ne4 Nf6 (6NxN Qxf6 black is already more comfortable) 6Bg5 Na6!? trying to regain pawn without giving up black square bishop.