Benoni Defense Fianchetto Variation Hastings Defense Main Line
How to Play the Benoni Defense Fianchetto Variation Hastings Defense Main Line
1. d4 Nf6: White initiates by controlling the center, and Black responds by developing the knight to a square that pressures the d4 pawn.
2. c4 e6: White advances the c4 pawn, reinforcing its center, while Black prepares for a possible d5, increasing its central control.
3. g3 c5: White prepares the fianchetto of the kingside bishop to control central squares along the long diagonal. Black counters in the center with c5.
4. d5 exd5: White advances d5, seeking central space and advantage, and Black responds by capturing the pawn on d5.
5. cxd5 d6: White recaptures on d5, maintaining a strong central pawn. Black responds with d6, aiming to strengthen its pawn structure and free the dark-squared bishop.
6. Nc3 g6: White develops the knight to c3, supporting the d5 pawn and preparing further development. Black responds with g6, planning to fianchetto the kingside bishop.
7. Bg2 Bg7: White fianchettos the kingside bishop, placing it on the long diagonal. Black does the same, opposing bishops on the long diagonal.
8. Nf3 O-O: White develops another knight to f3, strengthening central control. Black castles, securing the king’s safety and connecting the rooks.
9. O-O a6: White also castles, ensuring the king’s safety. Black plays a6, potentially preparing a queenside expansion with b5.
