Position Evaluation

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Avatar of NjChristian

The following is a position I reached in a recent game here on chess.com. Unfortunately, after I had been thinking for a few minutes, my opponent mysteriously resigned. I only say unfortunately because I was really wondering how play was going to continue. It seems to be an interesting position with hidden potential. I, for one, was at a loss when evaluating it (and really still am). Is white's d-pawn astrength or a liability? How can I target it? Would isolating an e pawn on my part to get rid of his pawn be necessarily a bad thing, or could I then look at that as a strength because of how close it is to being passed? These were just a few of the questions I tried unsuccesfully to wrestle with. Any suggested or possible continuations or just conceptual ideas would be appreciated.

As always, thanks very much.
Avatar of Zelenkooo

There is no quick solution for this position . Nc5 is the best move ( as i see it ) but after that my idea would be to make some good exchanges as exchange will make isolated peon on d5 weak 

Avatar of b1_

The c7 square is the immediate problem for Black - 20. Bc7 would be a major pain.

The position: White has more space, the isolated pawn, but three hanging pieces - dare I say over-extended. Black's position is cramped but solid. Black needs to uncramp himself.

19...Nc5, or 19...Bxc3 (removes defender of isolated d5-pawn) 20. bxc3 Nc5 (double attack on hanging a6-bishop and d5-pawn) 21. Bc4 Rd7 (preparing to release other rook and double up) 22. Bb3 b5 I think would be described as siezing the initiative.