Nimzo-Indian Defense: Classical Variation, Modern Variation

A strategic opening that focuses on controlling the center and developing pieces efficiently.

The opening begins with a pawn move to d4, followed by a knight developing to f6 and a pawn to e6. White then plays c4 to control the center, and Black responds with Bb4, pinning the knight on c3. White plays Qc2 to defend the knight and maintain flexibility in the center. Black then strikes at the center with d5, challenging White's pawn structure. White responds by capturing on d5 with the c3 knight, and Black recaptures with the bishop on c3. White then plays Qxc3, exchanging queens and doubling Black's pawns on the c-file. Black continues to put pressure on the center with Ne4, attacking the c3 knight. White defends the knight with Qc2, and Black strikes at the center again with c5, aiming to open up lines for the pieces. This opening leads to a complex and dynamic position where both sides have their own plans and ideas to pursue.