Neo-Benoni: 3.c3 b6
Neo-Benoni: 3.c3 b6
Definition
The Neo-Benoni is a branch of the Benoni family that arises after the moves 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.c3 b6 (or, with the move order 1.d4 c5 2.c4 Nf6 3.c3 b6). Instead of the customary 3.d5 advance that fixes the pawn structure, White plays 3.c3, reinforcing the d4–pawn and keeping central tension. Black replies with the characteristic …b6, preparing to fianchetto the dark-squared bishop to b7 and exert long-range pressure on the center. The resulting positions differ from the sharper Modern Benoni (3.d5 e6) and from the Czech Benoni (…e5 structures); they are more flexible and can transpose into English, Queen’s Gambit, or Colle-system-type setups.
Typical Move Order
One common sequence runs:
- 1. d4 Nf6
- 2. c4 c5
- 3. c3 b6
- 4. Nf3 Bb7
- 5. e3 e6
- 6. Bd3 d5
Both sides can deviate at several points; Black might insert …g6 and …Bg7, while White can play g3 & Bg2, fianchettoing as well. Because neither side has committed the central pawns to d5 or …e6/…e5 yet, the structure stays fluid and transpositional possibilities abound.
Strategic Ideas
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Black’s Game Plan
- Fianchetto the bishop to b7 to pressure e4 and d5.
- Break in the center with …d5 or …e6, depending on White’s setup.
- Sometimes adopt …g6 and a “double-fianchetto” to control the long diagonals.
-
White’s Game Plan
- Maintain a broad pawn center with d4–c3–e3 and later e4 or d5.
- Use the flexible structure to enter a Colle-Zukertort (b3, Bb2) or a reversed Benoni with d5 at a moment of choice.
- Exploit the slight loss of time from Black’s early …b6 by quick development and possible kingside expansion (e4, f4, g4).
Historical Background
The label “Neo-Benoni” was first used in the mid-20th century for lines beginning with 3.d5 e6, but theory later broadened the term to cover every early Benoni in which Black delays …e6 and White delays d5. The 3.c3 b6 system never became mainstream at elite level, yet it has served as a practical surprise weapon. Grandmasters Ulf Andersson and Jānis Klovāns occasionally chose it in the 1970s–80s to sidestep heavy Benoni theory, while modern rapid and blitz specialists appreciate its flexibility and reduced forcing lines.
Illustrative Game
The following rapid game captures typical ideas: quick development, double-fianchetto by Black, and a late central break by White.
[[Pgn| 1.d4|Nf6| 2.c4|c5| 3.c3|b6| 4.Nf3|Bb7| 5.e3|e6| 6.Bd3|d5| 7.O-O|Nbd7| 8.cxd5|exd5| 9.Nc3|Be7| 10.b3|O-O |fen|r2q1rk1/1bpnbppp/p1p2n2/3p4/2P2P2/1PPBP1N1/P4P1P/R1BQ1RK1 b - - 10 10 |arrows|c5d4 d4c3]]White eventually gained space with 11.Bb2 Re8 12.Ne5, while Black relied on the b7-bishop and central breaks …d4 or …cxd4 to generate counterplay, illustrating the typical middlegame balance.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- Because both sides may fianchetto their bishops, commentators jokingly call some Neo-Benoni structures “the lawn-sprinkler” — pieces are pointed toward the center from every diagonal like water jets.
- In the 2003 European Team Championship, the Latvian GM Jānis Klovāns used this line at age 68 to beat a 2600-rated opponent, proving that the opening can still spring surprises at any level.
- Engines evaluate the starting position after 3.c3 b6 as close to equality (around 0.20 – 0.30 for White at depth 30), making it a solid choice for players who dislike the razor-sharp Modern Benoni but still want asymmetrical play.
Related Systems
- Modern Benoni (3.d5 e6)
- Czech Benoni (…e5 structures)
- Benko Gambit (…b5 pawn sacrifice)
- Colle-Zukertort (d4–e3–Nf3–b3 setups often arise for White)
When to Use It
Choose the Neo-Benoni with 3…b6 when you:
- Want to avoid heavily analysed Modern Benoni main lines.
- Prefer strategic, maneuvering battles over forcing tactical play.
- Are comfortable entering a variety of pawn structures and can handle transpositions to Queen’s Gambit or English-type middlegames.