French Defense: Winawer Variation, Advance Variation (variation 2)

This variation of the French Defense involves an early pawn advance by White to gain space and control the center.

In this variation, White aims to establish a strong pawn presence in the center with the move d4, followed by d5 from Black. The move Nc3 develops a knight and prepares for further central control. Black's response with Bb4 targets White's knight on c3, putting pressure on White's position. White's move e5 creates a pawn chain and gains space in the center, while Black's c5 strike challenges White's central pawn on d4. The move a3 forces Black to make a decision regarding the bishop exchange on c3. After bxc3, Black develops the knight to e7, preparing for kingside castling and reinforcing the central control. White's move a4 aims to prevent Black from expanding on the queenside with b5. This opening leads to complex positions with strategic maneuvering and potential pawn breaks for both sides.