Trompowsky: 2...d5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.e3 c5
Trompowsky: 2…d5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.e3 c5
Definition
The sequence 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 d5 3.Bxf6 gxf6 4.e3 c5 is a sharp branch of the Trompowsky Attack in which:
- White immediately exchanges on f6, inflicting doubled f-pawns on Black.
- Black recaptures with the g-pawn, opening the g-file toward White’s king side.
- After the quiet 4.e3, Black strikes in the center with 4…c5, challenging White’s d-pawn before it can be reinforced by c2-c4.
The resulting pawn structure is unbalanced, and the game often becomes a battle between White’s healthier pawn majority and Black’s bishop pair and open files.
Typical Move Order
The line arises from the following moves:
- 1.d4 Nf6
- 2.Bg5 d5 (sidestepping the better-known 2…Ne4)
- 3.Bxf6 gxf6 (the critical decision—Black accepts the doubled pawns and half-open g-file)
- 4.e3 c5 (Black seizes space and frees the c8-bishop)
Strategic Themes
-
Pawn Structure Imbalance
White enjoys an intact pawn chain (c2–d4–e3) and a potential queenside majority. Black’s f-pawns are doubled (f7–f6) but control central squares e5 & g5 and give the king a flexible shelter (castling either side is possible). -
Bishop Pair vs. Structural Targets
Black usually owns both bishops. White often tries to prove that the f-pawns, especially f6, are long-term weaknesses. -
Open g-file
The rook can come to g8 with tempo. If White castles kingside, …Rg8 followed by …Qb6/…Qd7 and a pawn storm with …e5 or …f5 can be dangerous. -
Central Tension
After 4…c5, Black argues that rapid counterplay outweighs the structural damage. White must decide whether to capture (5.dxc5) or protect the d-pawn (5.c3, 5.Nf3, or 5.c4).
Historical Background
Brazilian master Octávio Trompowsky popularized 2.Bg5 in the 1930s, but this specific 2…d5 line became fashionable in the 1990s thanks to the English grandmaster Julian Hodgson, who wielded it successfully against elite opposition. World champions such as Vladimir Kramnik and Magnus Carlsen have occasionally adopted the Trompowsky as a surprise weapon, although they usually prefer quieter continuations after 3…gxf6.
Illustrative Game
Below is a short, model game showing the main ideas for both sides:
Key moments:
- 10…f5 expands on the kingside and vacates f6 for the knight or bishop.
- White delays c2-c4, so Black equalizes central space without difficulty.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- The doubled f-pawns look ugly, yet endgame tablebases show that in many simplified positions Black’s king can advance via f6–f5, converting the majority into activity.
- In Kasparov – Kramnik, Moscow 1994 (rapid), Kramnik tested this line against the future world champion and held an effortless draw despite playing on the black side of doubled pawns.
- Because engines value the bishop pair and activity, modern cloud analysis often rates Black’s position as equal or even slightly preferable, overturning the older human prejudice that the pawns are fatal weaknesses.
Practical Tips
- For White: Consider rapid queenside castling (as in the sample game) followed by c4 and Nc3–b5 to harass the c7 and d6 squares.
- For Black: Develop harmoniously with …Nc6, …e6, and …Bxc5. Delay castling until you know which side is safer; sometimes …O-O-O with a rook already on g8 is ideal.
- Both sides should watch out for the tactical shot Bxd5 exd5 Qxd5, which can arise if Black’s queen vacates d8 too early.