< Chess Opening Theory < 1. e4 < 1...e5 < 2. Nf3
Philidor Defence
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8 8
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1 1
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Position in Forsyth-Edwards Notation(FEN)

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2... d6 – Philidor Defence

The Black fortress is solid. White should not wait before attacking it, because Black can play 3...f5 if White plays a passive move, which would definitely equalize.

The best move is probably 3. d4. White threatens a queen exchange with dxe5 dxe5 Qxd8+ Kxd8 and Black can forget about castling. It puts pressure on the center and the Black fortress may collapse at any time.

Another possibility is 3. Bc4 leading to a more positional game, playable for both camps.

Theory table

For explanation of theory tables see theory table and for notation see algebraic notation .

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 d6

3 4 5
1 d4
exd4
Nxd4
Nf6
Nc3
Be7
=
2 Bc4
Be7
d3
Nf6
c3
O-O
=

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References

    • Batsford Chess Openings 2 (1989, 1994). Garry Kasparov, Raymond Keene. ISBN 0-8050-3409-9.
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