Sicilian Defense: Scheveningen Variation, Modern Variation (variation 3)

The Scheveningen Variation of the Sicilian Defense with the Modern Variation is a flexible and solid opening choice for Black.

This variation aims to control the center with pawns and develop the pieces harmoniously, allowing Black to counterattack White's central pawn structure while maintaining a solid pawn structure of their own. By fianchettoing the bishop on g7, Black aims to exert pressure along the long diagonal and potentially launch an attack on the kingside. The move ...Nf6 prepares to challenge White's central knight on d4, while ...d6 supports the e5 square and prepares for the eventual break with ...e5. White's setup with f4 and Be2 indicates a willingness to push forward on the kingside and potentially launch an attack, while Black's setup with ...Be7 and ...O-O prepares for a solid defense and potential counterplay on the queenside. The move ...Nc6 prepares to challenge White's central knight on d4, while ...Bd7 prepares to connect the rooks and potentially support the c5 pawn. Overall, this variation leads to dynamic and complex positions where both sides have chances for active play and counterplay.