Latvian Gambit: Mayet Attack, Polerio-Svedenborg Variation

One of the main reasons behind 1.e4 in the Latvian Gambit is to contest control over the central squares. By advancing the pawn to e4, White gains a strong hold on d5 and f5, limiting Black's options for piece development. Moreover, e4 opens up lines for the bishop on c1, allowing it to join the action more quickly. This move also sets the stage for various tactical possibilities, including the creation of discovered attacks and the exploitation of weak points in Black's position. All in all, 1.e4 is a solid repertoire choice for players seeking dynamic and aggressive play.

By playing e5 in response to 1.e4, Black aims to mirror White's move and likewise secure a foothold in the center. Similarly to White, Black seeks to control d5 and f5 and develop their pieces rapidly. e5 also frees up the bishop on f8, which can now be brought out to the c5-g1 diagonal, adding pressure to White's position. This move can also potentially create tactical opportunities, such as pawn forks and discovered attacks. In short, e5 represents a sound and aggressive opening idea for Black.

Nf3 is a natural developing move for White in response to Black's e5. It brings a knight into play and facilitates piece coordination. Moreover, Nf3 supports White's control over the central squares, particularly d4 and e5. This move also prepares future castling, as the knight not only guards the pawn on d2 but also indirectly protects the king from potential attacks along the g1-a7 diagonal. Additionally, Nf3 enables White to explore a variety of opening systems, including the Ruy Lopez and the Italian Game. All factors considered, Nf3 represents a solid and flexible move for White.

In the Latvian Gambit: Mayet Attack, Polerio-Svedenborg Variation, playing f5 is a bold and aggressive move by Black. By pushing the pawn forward two squares, Black attempts to drive back the white knight on f3 and seize more space in the center. f5 also allows the black bishop on c8 to emerge and seek aggressive lines of development. However, this move leaves the e5 pawn undefended and potentially vulnerable to attack, and may weaken Black's pawn structure if not played carefully. In sum, f5 represents a high-risk, high-reward opening idea for Black.

By playing Bc4 in response to 2...f5, White employs the Mayet Attack, which seeks to capitalize on Black's aggressive but slightly dubious play. Bc4 pins the f5 pawn, making it difficult for Black to defend without conceding material. Additionally, Bc4 activates the bishop along the c1-h6 diagonal, placing pressure on Black's kingside and supporting a potential attack on f7. This move also contributes to White's overall development, allowing the queen to access the d3 square and preparing for possible castling. With careful play, Bc4 represents a strong and dynamic weapon for White in the Mayet Attack.

Moving the e4 pawn in response to Bc4 is a common idea for Black in this line of the Mayet Attack. By capturing the pawn, Black aims to eliminate White's central pawn, which can be a strong defensive barrier against Black's aggressive intentions. fxe4 also activates the black pawn on f5, allowing it to move freely without being pinned by the bishop on c4. However, this move does leave the black pawn structure somewhat damaged and exposes the f5 square for potential exploitation by White's pieces. All things considered, fxe4 is a tactical and concrete reply by Black that sets the stage for further middle-game complications.

In the Latvian Gambit: Mayet Attack, Polerio-Svedenborg Variation, playing Nxe5 is a bold and tactical strike by White. By capturing the knight, White creates a double threat on f7, which can potentially lead to serious problems for Black if not addressed promptly. Nxe5 also puts further pressure on Black's vulnerable pawn structure and increases White's central control. However, this move does come at a cost as White's knight becomes exposed and vulnerable to potential counterattacks. The success of Nxe5 often depends on the accuracy of White's follow-up moves and Black's ability to respond effectively. In short, Nxe5 represents a decisive and principled approach for White in the Mayet Attack.

Playing d5 after 4.Nxe5 is a concrete and defensive move by Black. By advancing the pawn, Black defends the f7 square and creates a direct attack on the knight on e5. d5 also allows the black queen to enter the game with a discovered attack on the knight, which White must address carefully. However, this move does come at a cost as it weakens the black pawn structure and opens up lines for White's pieces to infiltrate. d5 represents a critical moment in the Mayet Attack and often sets the stage for complex tactical ideas and positional imbalances.