Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...c5/2. Nf3/2...b6

Katalimov Sicilian
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Position in Forsyth-Edwards Notation (FEN)
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 b6

Katalimov Sicilian

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2...b6

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This fianchetto of the Queen's Bishop leaves Black with many weak white colored squares on the Queenside where allowing a possible Bb5 or Nb5, while it does nothing to develop on the Kingside. White's best move is 3. d4 and sets a trap if Black plays 7...d6??, White can win a queen with 8. Bb5+! (see diagram below).

Position after 8. Bb5+!
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Position in Forsyth-Edwards Notation (FEN)
Moves: 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 b6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Bb7 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Be3 Nxd4 7. Bxd4 d6 8. Bb5+

Theory table

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For explanation of notation, see Chess Opening Theory Table.

1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 b6

3 4 5
d4
cxd4
Nxd4
Bb7
Nc3
d6
+=
...
Bb7
d5 +=
g3
Bb7
Qe2
Qc7
Bg2
Nc6
0-0
Nd4?!
+=

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References

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v · t · e
Chess openings quick reference
1. e4
2. Nf3
With 2...Nc6:
With other 2nd moves:
2. Other
1... other
1. d4
Flank
Unorthodox