Two Knights Defence: 4.Ng5 main line is variation 4 of 6 in the Italian Game course, a beginner opening course for White (ECO C59). It runs 24 moves and begins 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. Ng5 d5 …. White attacks f7 at once with 4.Ng5. Black must give a pawn with 4...d5 5.exd5 Na5, getting quick development and space in return. White keeps the extra pawn and must untangle carefully. In the lesson every move is explained on a board and then drilled; it is free.
Move by move
1. e4 – Takes the centre.
1... e5 – Black claims an equal share.
2. Nf3 – Develops and hits e5.
2... Nc6 – Defends e5.
3. Bc4 – Aims at f7.
3... Nf6 – The Two Knights Defence: Black counter-attacks e4 instead of copying White.
4. Ng5 – Knight and bishop now both attack f7, which only the king defends.
4... d5 – The standard answer: blocks the c4 bishop's attack on f7.
5. exd5 – Takes the pawn; the bishop's diagonal toward f7 is closed again, so this is the only real try.
5... Na5 – The main line: Black attacks the c4 bishop and gives a pawn for development.
6. Bb5+ – Keeps the bishop active with check before it is chased.
6... c6 – Blocks the check and attacks the d5 pawn and the bishop.
7. dxc6 – Takes the pawn so the d-file does not open for Black with ...cxd5.
7... bxc6 – Recaptures, opening the b-file for Black's rook.
8. Be2 – The main retreat; the bishop stays near the king.
8... h6 – Kicks the g5 knight to gain more time.
The lesson goes on for 8 more moves, each with its explanation.
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