Opening course · B30 to B31
Learn the Rossolimo Variation
The Rossolimo Variation starts with 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 g6 4.Bxc6 dxc6 5.d3 Bg7. Take on c6, double Black’s pawns and build with d3, h3, Nc3 and Be3. A calm way past Sicilian theory.
- You play White
- For club players
- Rated about 1200 to 2800
What you will learn
- 1 The idea 3 steps
- 2 Main line 15 steps
- 3 Key variations 4 steps
- 4 Traps 3 steps
- 5 Plans and middlegames 4 steps
- 6 Test yourself 9 steps
Key ideas
- Bb5 and Bxc6 double the pawns.
- d3 and h3 before Be3.
- Qd2 and Bh6 hit g7.
Traps you will see
- The loose bishop Set by Black
- The hanging e5 pawn Set by White
- Bh6 too soon Set by Black
Model games
- Magnus Carlsen Aleksander Sjkadiuk Alta · 2003
- Magnus Carlsen Boris Gelfand Candidates, London · 2013
Questions
Is the Rossolimo Variation good for beginners?
It suits club players from about 1200 to 2800. Beginners can follow the course, but some lines need care.
What are the first moves of the Rossolimo Variation?
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 g6 4.Bxc6 dxc6 5.d3 Bg7.
How long is the course?
6 chapters with 38 steps, each played out on the board with your coach.
Which traps does the course cover?
- The loose bishop
- The hanging e5 pawn
- Bh6 too soon