Opening course · E01 to E09
Learn the Catalan Opening
The Catalan Opening starts with 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.g3 d5 4.Bg2 Be7 5.Nf3 O-O 6.O-O dxc4. A bishop on the long diagonal, a pawn you win back and pressure that never lets up.
- You play White
- For club players
- Rated about 1200 to 2700
What you will learn
- 1 The idea 3 steps
- 2 Main line 17 steps
- 3 Key variations 5 steps
- 4 Traps 3 steps
- 5 Plans and middlegames 4 steps
- 6 Test yourself 10 steps
Key ideas
- g3 and Bg2 aim at b7.
- After …dxc4, Qc2 and a4.
- Win c4 back, then Bg5 and e4.
Traps you will see
- The long diagonal Set by White
- Ng5 and two threats Set by White
- The loose bishop Set by White
Model games
- Ding Liren Magnus Carlsen Goldmoney Asian Rapid · 2021
- Vladimir Kramnik Magnus Carlsen Dortmund · 2007
Questions
Is the Catalan Opening good for beginners?
It suits club players from about 1200 to 2700. Beginners can follow the course, but some lines need care.
What are the first moves of the Catalan Opening?
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.g3 d5 4.Bg2 Be7 5.Nf3 O-O 6.O-O dxc4.
How long is the course?
6 chapters with 42 steps, each played out on the board with your coach.
Which traps does the course cover?
- The long diagonal
- Ng5 and two threats
- The loose bishop