Benoni: 4.Nc3 exd5 5.cxd5 d6

Benoni: 4.Nc3 exd5 5.cxd5 d6

Definition

The phrase “Benoni: 4.Nc3 exd5 5.cxd5 d6” refers to a specific branch of the Modern Benoni Defense, arising after the main sequence 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6. Here Black voluntarily concedes central space in return for dynamic counter-chances on the queenside and along the long diagonal. The resulting structure—often called the Benoni pawn chain—features a fixed center (White pawns on d5 & e4, Black pawns on d6 & e6 or …e7) and asymmetrical play.

Move Order & Key Position

The critical position is reached after:

• 1. d4 Nf6
• 2. c4 c5
• 3. d5 e6
• 4. Nc3 exd5
• 5. cxd5 d6

Both sides are committed: White has a spatial advantage and a mobile kingside majority; Black counts on piece activity, the semi-open e- and c-files, and breaks such as …b5 and …f5.

Usage in Practical Play

• For Black: This is a fighting reply to 1.d4, chosen by players who dislike passive positions and are willing to accept structural risk for dynamic chances.
• For White: It tests Black’s willingness to play an unbalanced game, aiming at a long-term bind (f2-f4, Nf3-d2-c4) or a direct kingside assault (e4-e5, f2-f4-f5).

Strategic Themes

• Pawn Structure: d5 vs. d6 defines the battle; White often adds e4, Black counters with …b5 or …f5.
• Piece Placement: Black’s “Benoni bishop” on g7 (after …g6, …Bg7) eyes the d4-h8 diagonal, while White’s light-squared bishop often lands on e2 or d3 to support e4-e5.
• Typical Breaks:
  • Black: …b5, …Re8 & …Nbd7–e5, …f5 (in the Taimanov or Modern systems)
  • White: f4-f5, e4-e5, a4 (to restrain …b5), and sometimes b4 to clamp the queenside.
• King Safety: Castling kingside is standard for both, but opposite-wing attacks arise if White castles queenside in aggressive lines.

Historical Significance

The Modern Benoni surged in popularity during the 1960s thanks to players like Tal, Fischer, and later Kasparov. Its reputation swings: decisive wins for either side are common, leading to periods of fashion and disfavor at elite level.

Illustrative Examples

Try visualizing the basic tabiya:

1. Tal – Gligorić, Bled 1961
   Tal unleashed a swift f4-f5 thrust, showing how early kingside pressure can suffocate Black before his queenside play begins.
2. Kasparov – Topalov, Linares 1999
   Though starting from a later move order, the game exhibited classic Benoni themes: a sacrificial exchange on d6 and a powerful passed d-pawn deciding the struggle.

Interesting Facts & Anecdotes

• The term “Benoni” means “son of sorrow” in Hebrew, allegedly coined in an 1820s book; many defenses bearing the name are sharp and risky—aptly sorrowful for the unwary.
• Computers once condemned the Modern Benoni, but modern engines now reveal hidden resources, reviving it in correspondence and engine-assisted preparation.
• The line is fertile ground for novelties: a single tempo (e.g., 6. Nf3 g6 7. Nd2!?) can shift the evaluation dramatically.

Typical Plans Checklist

For quick reference:

• White
  • Clamp queenside: a4!
  • Central steamroller: e4-e5, f2-f4-f5
  • Piece maneuver: Nf3–d2–c4 eyeing d6 & e5
• Black
  • Counterstrike: …b5 break
  • Fianchetto: …g6, …Bg7 vs. center
  • Piece activity: …Re8, …Nbd7, …Ne5 hitting c4 & d3

Summary

The line 4.Nc3 exd5 5.cxd5 d6 is the cornerstone of the Modern Benoni. It transforms the game into a tense, double-edged battle of space versus activity. Understanding pawn breaks, piece harmony, and timing is essential—making this opening a favorite of players who relish dynamic, unbalanced positions.