Trompowsky Attack
Initial Moves: 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5
Strategic Summary & Main Idea
The Trompowsky Attack develops the bishop with an immediate threat of Bxf6, dodging most of the theory of the Indian defences. White is happy to give up the bishop pair to damage Black's structure or gain tempi in the centre.
Typical Plans for White
- Taking on f6 when the doubled pawns actually matter
- Building a centre with e4 after provoking ...Ne4
- Developing quickly with Nc3, e3 and Bd3
Typical Plans for Black
- Hitting the bishop with ...Ne4 and gaining space
- Challenging d4 with ...c5
- Accepting Bxf6 and using the bishop pair or the g-file
Main Variations of the Trompowsky Attack
| Variation | Move Sequence | Style / Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| The 2...Ne4 Line | 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 Ne4 3.Bf4 d5 |
A direct fight for the centre |
| The 2...e6 Line | 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 e6 3.e4 |
A broad centre and the initiative for White |
| The 2...d5 Line | 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 d5 3.Bxf6 exf6 |
An asymmetric structure and positional plans |
Common Mistakes & Where Most Amateurs Go Wrong
- 01 White trading on f6 with no structural gain to show for it
- 02 Black moving the knight repeatedly and falling behind in development
- 03 Pushing e4 and leaving d4 or the queen loose
Practice the Trompowsky Attack on the Interactive Board
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