Sicilian Moscow Variation and Haag Gambit
Sicilian Defense: Moscow Variation
Definition
The Moscow Variation is an Anti-Sicilian line that arises after 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. Bb5+. By checking on b5, White sidesteps the labyrinth of Open-Sicilian theory and forces Black either to block with a knight ( 3…Nc6 ) or a bishop ( 3…Bd7 ). The position is closely related to the Rossolimo Variation (where Black has played …Nc6 on move 2), but the subtle differences in move order give each line its own strategic flavor.
Key Move-Orders & Ideas
- 3…Nc6 4. O-O or 4. d4 – White keeps pressure, often exchanging on c6 to inflict structural damage (doubled c-pawns) before occupying the center.
- 3…Bd7 (the classical reply) 4. Bxd7+ Qxd7 5. O-O. Black keeps a flexible structure, aiming for …Nf6, …Nc6 and …e6 without the doubled pawns.
- Typical pawn structures include an IQP for Black after …cxd4 and d4xd5, or a “Spanish-style” structure with pawns on d6–e6 versus White’s d- and e-pawns.
Strategic Themes
- Control of d5. By not playing an early d2-d4, White keeps the d5-square under close surveillance.
- Bishop pair vs. damaged structure. If White exchanges on c6, Black gains the bishop pair but must treat the c-pawns tenderly.
- Quiet pressure. Because no pawns have yet been exchanged, piece play and prophylaxis are as important as outright attack.
Historical Notes
The variation was popularized in the mid-20th century by Soviet masters such as Vitaly Chekhover and later by Vladimir Kramnik, who used it as a low-theory weapon against the Najdorf specialists of his era. The name “Moscow” reflects its frequent appearance in tournaments held in the Soviet capital during the 1940s–60s.
Illustrative Mini-Game
Below is a crisp 20-move encounter that shows the typical ideas of rapid
development and pressure on Black’s queenside structure:
Trivia & Anecdotes
- Because it avoids the Open Sicilian, the Moscow Variation is sometimes nick-named “The Najdorf Slayer” in club circles.
- During preparation for the 2014 World Championship match, Magnus Carlsen’s team reportedly spent several days on the Moscow/Rossolimo complex—while Carlsen surprised Anand in the match with 1. d4 instead!
- FIDE code: B51–B52 in the ECO (Encyclopedia of Chess Openings).
Haag Gambit
Definition
The Haag Gambit is a counter-gambit for Black that normally appears in the Blackmar–Diemer Gambit move order: 1. d4 d5 2. e4 dxe4 3. Nc3 e5!?. Instead of trying to hold the extra pawn, Black returns it immediately to break open the center and accelerate development. The line is named after the German master Karl Haag, who explored the idea in correspondence play during the 1920s.
Main Line & Concepts
- 1. d4 d5
- 2. e4 dxe4
- 3. Nc3 e5!? (Haag Gambit)
- 4. dxe5 Qxd1+ 5. Nxd1
- … Nc6 or …Bf5 with swift piece play.
By exchanging queens early, Black neutralizes much of White’s attacking potential—an attractive practical choice against BWG aficionados who rely on tactical complications.
Strategic Considerations
- Time vs. Material. Black sacrifices the e-pawn but gains a lead in development and a queen-less middlegame where the bishop pair can thrive.
- Endgame Drift. With queens off, small structural edges become important; Black often steers for symmetrical pawn structures that make the extra pawn irrelevant.
- Psychological Weapon. Many BDG players are unhappy to see their beloved attacking chances vanish on move 4.
Historical & Theoretical Notes
The gambit first appeared in German correspondence databases under Haag – Böttcher, 1927. It later slipped into obscurity as the BDG itself lost popularity, but modern engines show that Black’s concept is completely sound—giving it renewed interest among surprise-weapon hunters.
Illustrative Game
A smooth demonstration of Black’s ideas can be seen in
Schmittdiel – Haag, Berlin 1930:
Interesting Facts
- Despite its soundness, the Haag Gambit appears in fewer than 1 % of BDG games in modern databases—making it a perfect “pet line” for the prepared player.
- The early queen trade echoes the Scandinavian Defense: Mieses–Kotrč Variation, another system where Black happily heads for an endgame to neutralize White’s initiative.
- ECO classification: D00.