5.Nxc6: the exchange on c6 is variation 3 of 6 in the Sicilian Taimanov and Kan course, a advanced opening course for Black (ECO B44). It runs 18 moves and begins 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nc6 …. White trades knights at once. Black takes back toward the centre and plays ...d5. Black gets a strong pawn centre, develops the kingside and castles. 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. Black fights for d4 from the side.
2. Nf3 – White develops and prepares d4.
2... e6 – Black frees the f8 bishop and keeps an eye on d5.
3. d4 – White opens the centre.
3... cxd4 – Black trades a side pawn for a centre pawn.
4. Nxd4 – The knight takes back and sits in the centre.
4... Nc6 – The Taimanov. Black develops and hits the d4 knight.
5. Nxc6 – White trades knights at once.
5... bxc6 – Take toward the centre. This pawn will support a pawn on d5.
6. Nc3 – White develops and watches d5.
6... d5 – Black takes a full share of the centre.
7. Bd3 – White develops and gets ready to castle.
7... Nf6 – Black develops and adds a guard to d5.
8. O-O – White castles.
8... Be7 – Black develops the last kingside piece.
The lesson goes on for 2 more moves, each with its explanation.
chessGM