Sicilian Defense B86 - Sozin Attack (Scheveningen)
Sicilian Defense — B86 (Scheveningen, Sozin Attack)
Definition
ECO code B86 refers to a branch of the Sicilian Defense in which Black adopts the Scheveningen structure and White develops the bishop aggressively to c4 (the Sozin setup). The characteristic move order is:
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 e6 6. Bc4
The “Scheveningen” label denotes Black’s flexible pawn duo on e6 and d6, while “Sozin” indicates White’s Bc4 aiming at f7 and rapid kingside pressure. B86 positions can also arise via Najdorf move orders if Black later plays …a6, but the defining feature is the Scheveningen center with White’s bishop on c4.
How it is used in chess
White uses Bc4 to increase piece activity and create tactical pressure against f7, often preparing f4–f5, Qe2 (or Qf3), and 0-0. Black seeks harmonious development (…Be7, …0-0, …Nbd7, …Qc7) and timely counterplay on the queenside (…a6, …b5) or in the center with …d5.
- White’s aims: seize the d5 square, launch a kingside initiative with f4–f5, and exploit the c4–f7 diagonal.
- Black’s aims: complete development safely, restrain e5/f5 breaks, and counterattack with …b5–b4 and/or the liberating …d5.
Move order and ECO scope
The canonical B86 path is:
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 e6 6. Bc4
Typical continuations include 6…Be7 7. Bb3 0-0 8. 0-0 Nc6 (or …Na6, …Bd7, …Qc7, …a6), keeping the Scheveningen pawn structure intact. If Black inserts an early …a6 (a Najdorf hallmark), the game can transpose to Najdorf–Scheveningen hybrids, sometimes cataloged under nearby ECO codes.
Strategic themes and key ideas
- The d5 square: White often maneuvers for a knight outpost on d5; Black prepares …d5 to free the position.
- f4–f5 lever: Central to White’s plan, cracking e6 and opening lines toward the king.
- Queenside counterplay: …a6–…b5–…Bb7 or …Na6–c5 gains space and challenges the Bb3 along the diagonal.
- King safety: White usually castles short in Sozin setups; Black aims for …0-0 and solid dark-square control with …Be7 and …Qc7.
- Piece placement: White often plays Qe2 (or Qf3), Kh1, Be3, f4; Black harmonizes with …Nbd7, …Qc7, …Re8, waiting for the right …d5 or …b5 break.
Illustrative line
The following sample shows typical development and plans for both sides:
White prepares f4–f5 and eyes d5; Black chooses …Na6–c5, …a6–…b5 and keeps …d5 in reserve.
Example games and references
- Fischer vs. Geller, Curacao Candidates, 1962 — A model Sozin Attack (via a Najdorf move order) where the structure transposed into Scheveningen themes: Bc4 pressure, f4–f5 ideas, and the central fight around d5.
- Kasparov’s Scheveningen repertoire (1980s–1990s) — As Black, Kasparov frequently reached Scheveningen structures; many of his games illustrate the queenside counterplay and the timing of …d5 that are critical in B86 positions.
Note: While some famous Sozin games arise from Najdorf codes (B88–B99), the plans are highly instructive for B86 because the central structure (…e6/…d6 vs. White’s e4) is identical.
Common tactics and motifs
- Breakthrough on e6: f5 exf5 (or …e5) can open files; sacrifices on e6 (Bxe6/Nxe6) are thematic when Black’s pieces are poorly coordinated.
- …Qb6 hits b2 and d4: After Qe2 or Qf3, Black’s …Qb6 can create concrete threats; White must watch tactics on d4 and b2.
- Greek Gift themes muted/enhanced: With Bc4 and a knight on g5, ideas against f7/h7 appear, though …h6 often blunts N-g5 tactics.
- …d5 timing: A well-timed …d5 can equalize or seize the initiative; a mistimed …d5 can leave weak squares and open diagonals toward Black’s king.
- Na6–c5 vs. Bb3: Black often uses …Na6–c5 to harass Bb3 and reduce pressure on f7 and e6.
Transpositions and repertoire notes
- To Najdorf hybrids: If Black plays …a6 early, the line may be recorded under Najdorf ECOs, but the Scheveningen plans remain.
- From Classical move orders: If Black plays …Nc6 before …e6, some Sozin positions are classified differently; once …e6/…d6 appear with Bc4, the game is conceptually B86-like.
- Against anti-Sozin tries: Black can aim for …Nbd7, …Be7, …Qc7, and a quick …b5 or the central counter …d5 to blunt Bc4 pressure.
Historical and practical significance
The Sozin Attack was popularized by Veniamin Sozin and later refined by Bobby Fischer, becoming a feared weapon against the Sicilian. In B86 channels, it marries classical piece activity with modern pawn storms. For club and master play alike, it remains a principled way for White to fight for the initiative while Black enjoys rich counterattacking resources.
Practical tips
- For White: Coordinate Qe2/Qf3, Be3, Kh1, and f4–f5; don’t allow …d5 under perfect conditions. Be alert to …Qb6 tactics.
- For Black: Complete development efficiently; keep an eye on the d5 square; prepare …d5 with …a6, …b5 or …Re8/…Bf8; use …Na6–c5 to challenge Bb3.
- Both sides: Move orders matter. Small transpositions can change which tactical shots work on e6, f7, and d4.