Nimzo-Indian Defense: St. Petersburg Variation (variation 7)

This opening is a solid defense for Black that aims to control the center and develop pieces efficiently.

The St. Petersburg Variation is a popular line in the Nimzo-Indian Defense where Black fianchettoes their bishop to control the long diagonal and put pressure on White's center. By playing Ne4, Black aims to trade off White's strong knight on c3 and disrupt their pawn structure. The move f5 further solidifies Black's control over the center and prepares for potential pawn breaks in the future. Bb7 is a natural developing move, putting pressure on the e4 pawn and preparing to castle kingside. This opening typically leads to complex positions where both sides have chances for active play. White has various options to choose from in response, such as advancing in the center or developing their pieces to prepare for the middlegame. Overall, the St. Petersburg Variation offers Black dynamic counterplay and the opportunity to fight for the initiative in the early stages of the game.