Benko Gambit Declined: Hjoerring Countergambit
Benko Gambit Declined
Definition
The Benko Gambit begins with the moves 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.d5 b5, where Black offers the b-pawn to obtain long-term queenside pressure. If White chooses not to capture on b5 (or does so only temporarily before returning it), the opening is classified as a Benko Gambit Declined. In practice, any line in which White refuses to keep the extra pawn—preferring instead to build a center, retain flexibility, or steer play into quieter channels—falls under this umbrella.
Typical Declining Methods
- 4.Nf3 – a solid development move, often followed by g3 and Bg2.
- 4.a4 – immediately challenging the b5-pawn and trying to keep the queenside closed.
- 4.e3 – a restrained approach that maintains the central pawn chain.
- 4.e4 !? – the Hjoerring Countergambit (see separate heading below).
Strategic Significance
Declining the gambit avoids the well-analyzed main lines where Black enjoys enduring compensation along the a- and b-files. White’s aims usually include:
- Maintaining a central space advantage.
- Slowing or preventing …a6 and …bxa6 ideas.
- Reaching positions less theory-heavy than the Accepted Benko.
Historical Perspective
The Benko (aka Volga) Gambit rose to prominence in the 1960-70s thanks to Grandmaster Pal Benko’s consistent use of the line. As theory deepened, a generation of White players preferred declined systems to sidestep forcing variations. The most combative of these declining systems is the Hjoerring Countergambit, covered next.
Illustrative Mini-Example
One classical declining line goes:
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.d5 b5 4.Nf3 g6 5.cxb5 a6 6.bxa6 Bxa6 7.Nc3 d6
White eventually returns the pawn but keeps a solid center while Black’s bishop pair gives dynamic chances.
Interesting Facts
- The first top-level hero to decline consistently was Anatoly Karpov, who preferred positional control to pawn-grabbing complications.
- Modern engines agree that many declined lines yield roughly equal chances—helping them gain adherents in rapid and blitz play.
Hjoerring Countergambit (Benko Gambit Declined, 4.e4 !?)
Definition
The Hjoerring Countergambit is a sharp reply to the Benko idea:
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.d5 b5 4.e4 !?
Instead of accepting or refusing the pawn passively, White counter-sacrifices the e-pawn, seizing central space and aiming for rapid development. The name derives from the Danish town Hjørring, where the line was studied and popularised by Scandinavian masters in the 1970s.
Main Branches
If Black accepts the countergambit the game often proceeds:
4…Nxe4 5.cxb5 a6 (A) 6.Qc2 Nf6 7.Nc3 Nd6 8.Bf4 axb5 9.Bxd6 exd6 – White regains the pawn, keeps a lead in development. (B) 6.bxa6 Qa5+ 7.Nc3 Nxc3 8.Qd2 – messy play with opposite-side castling chances.
Declining with 4…d6 or 4…e5 is also possible but concedes White a broad center.
Strategic Themes
- Central Supremacy: After sacrificing on e4, White’s pawns on d5 and c4 restrict Black’s pieces.
- Development Race: Both sides often leave kings in the middle until tactical dust clears. Accurate move orders are critical.
- Pawn Structure Fluidity: The c- and d-pawns may advance further (c4-c5, d5-d6) to cramp Black.
Usage & Practical Tips
- Prepared Weapon: Ideal for players who welcome tactical play and wish to surprise Benko aficionados.
- Time Controls: Effective in faster formats where theoretical depth of main Benko lines is harder to recall.
- Engine Check: Modern analysis suggests the line is sound—engines often rate 4.e4 as equal or slightly better for White.
Famous Encounters
- Bologan – Kobalia, European Ch. 2000: A textbook 4.e4 Nxe4 5.cxb5 a6 6.Qc2 where White’s initiative forced Black into an awkward endgame after only 25 moves.
- Hammer – Shirov, Bundesliga 2012: Shirov bravely met the countergambit with 4…d6, but Hammer’s central push 5.cxb5 g6 6.Nc3 Bg7 secured lasting pressure and a later breakthrough on the kingside.
Anecdotes & Fun Facts
- The line’s Danish origin explains the ø in “Hjørring.” Anglophone databases usually simplify it to “Hjoerring.”
- Grandmaster Bent Larsen, famous for creative openings, encouraged local juniors to test 4.e4 in club events, leading to its popularisation.
- Because the variation includes two pawn sacrifices in the first five moves, some blitz specialists nickname it “the double Benko.”
Sample Mini-Game (in PGN)
This model game shows how quickly White’s queen and knights swarm the center and kingside, while Black struggles to complete development.
Current Theoretical Verdict
Engine evaluations hover around 0.00 to +0.30 for White, confirming the countergambit’s soundness. Black must know concrete sequences to avoid drifting into a passive or even worse endgame.