Moscow: 2.Nf3 d6 3.Bb5+ is variation 6 of 6 in the Anti-Sicilians for Black course, a intermediate opening course for Black (ECO B51). It runs 24 moves and begins 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. Bb5+ Bd7 4. Bxd7+ Qxd7 …. White gives a check with the bishop. Black blocks with the bishop and trades it. The game is calm and Black builds a solid centre with the e-pawn and the d-pawn. In the lesson every move is explained on a board and then drilled; it is free.
Move by move
1. e4 – White takes the centre.
1... c5 – The Sicilian.
2. Nf3 – White develops and prepares d4.
2... d6 – Black controls e5 and frees the c8 bishop.
3. Bb5+ – The Moscow. White checks and avoids the Open Sicilian.
3... Bd7 – Black blocks with the bishop and offers a trade.
4. Bxd7+ – White trades the bishops.
4... Qxd7 – The queen takes back and the b8 knight can still go to c6.
5. O-O – White castles.
5... Nc6 – The knight develops to its best square.
6. c3 – White prepares d4.
6... Nf6 – Black develops and attacks e4.
7. Re1 – The rook defends e4.
7... e6 – Black prepares the bishop on e7 and covers d5.
8. d4 – White takes the centre.
8... cxd4 – Black trades on d4.
The lesson goes on for 8 more moves, each with its explanation.
chessGM