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Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation

Mastering Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation is a popular chess opening that offers solid and flexible pawn structures for both white and black pieces. A move by move analysis will help to understand the various plans and counterplans. This opening is highly strategic, and every move plays an essential role in shaping the final position.

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winrate

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This line (22 moves) is played in approximately 1 out of every 1000 games

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation is a popular opening in chess, played by many players worldwide.

The opening begins with 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 d6 8.c3 O-O 9.h3 Na5 10.Bc2 c5 11.d4 Nc6.

The main idea behind this opening is to control the center of the board and develop minor pieces effectively.

One of the strengths of this opening is that it offers a solid and flexible pawn structure, which makes it difficult for the opponent to launch an attack.

However, its weakness lies in its level of difficulty, as it requires a deep understanding of the various plans and counterplans.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, move by move

e4

-0.15

In the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, White opens the game by playing e4. This move aims to control the center of the board and facilitate the development of the bishop on c1 and the knight on f3. By occupying the e5 square, White puts pressure on Black to defend their pawn with d6. This opening is known for its strategic complexity which allows both players to fight for the initiative. The Borisenko Variation is an interesting choice for players who want to take unprepared opponents out of their comfort zone.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation e4

e5

+0.72

Playing e5 after the moves 1. e4 aims to control the central squares and fight for space on the board. By placing their pawn in the center, Black counterattacks and puts immediate pressure on White's position. This move also allows the knight on g8 to come into play and frees the bishop on c8. However, Black should be aware of potential tactics involving the pawn on e5, which can become a target for White's pieces. In sum, e5 is a common and solid response to White's opening move.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation e5

Nf3

+0.1

By playing Nf3 after the moves 1. e4 e5, White develops their knight and attacks the e5 pawn. This move is a common response in many openings and allows White to control the center and prepare for castling. Additionally, the knight on f3 protects the pawn on e5, making it difficult for Black to undermine White's position. Nf3 is a flexible move that allows White to adapt their plan according to Black's response. In sum, this move is an important piece of White's opening strategy and sets the stage for further development.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Nf3

Nc6

+0.76

In the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, playing Nc6 after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 is a popular response. This move prepares to attack White's pawn on e4 and enables Black's knight to achieve an active position. By placing the knight on a central square, Black also helps to control the center and expands their influence on the board. However, Black must be careful to avoid tactics that might exploit the knight's position, such as pinning it with Bb5. Nc6 is a solid move that allows Black to develop harmoniously while contesting the center.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Nc6

Bb5

+0.05

By playing Bb5 after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6, White intends to pin Black's knight on c6. This move also marks the beginning of the Ruy Lopez opening, one of the oldest and most respected chess openings. By developing their bishop to a square on the kingside, White prepares to castle and gain control of the center. Additionally, Bb5 applies pressure on Black's position, which can lead to uncomfortable positions if Black is not well-prepared. In sum, Bb5 is a sophisticated move that signals White's intent to fight for the initiative.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Bb5

a6

+0.75

Playing a6 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 is known as the Morphy Defense and is a very common response in Ruy Lopez opening variations. The primary purpose of the move a6 is to prevent the white piece Bb5 from pinning the black knight on c6 and forcing it to move, which would result in a loss of time for Black. Additionally, a6 prepares b5, which can be used to challenge the white bishop on b3, or be used as a launchpad for a counterattack on the queenside. However, the pawn move a6 also weakens the b6-square and creates a potential weakness that can be exploited in the future. In sum, a6 is a solid choice for Black that helps them to maintain harmony in their position while preparing for further development.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation a6

Ba4

0

In the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, playing Ba4 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 is a common move. This move is known as the "retreat" variation of the Ruy Lopez and aims to develop the bishop on a4 while still maintaining the possibility of pinning the knight on c6 with Bb5 in the future. By moving the bishop to a4, White also prepares to castle, gaining control of the center before proceeding with further attacks. However, this move can also lead to an exchange of bishops if Black responds with b5. In sum, Ba4 is a flexible move that helps White to maintain the initiative in the opening while also increasing their positional options.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Ba4

Nf6

+0.72

Playing Nf6 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 is a common response and helps Black to contest control of the center. By placing the knight on a central square, Black also prepares to castle kingside and creates threats against the e4 pawn. This move also puts pressure on the bishop on a4, which must either move or be traded for the knight. However, Black must be careful of potential tactics involving the pin on the f6-knight and the weakened d5-square. In sum, Nf6 is a flexible move that sets the stage for further development while simultaneously engaging White's position.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Nf6

O-O

+0.15

After the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6, playing O-O is a natural and logical move for White. Castling kingside allows White to bring their king to safety while simultaneously connecting their rooks, preparing them to control open files and attack Black's position. Additionally, castling can help to avoid potential tactics involving checks and threats to the king. However, castling can also make the king vulnerable to attacks in the center or on the queenside if the position is not properly evaluated. In sum, O-O is a critical move that confirms White's development and prepares for further strategic choices in the game.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation O-O

Be7

+0.74

In the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, playing Be7 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O is a standard response. This move aims to develop the bishop and get it ready for castling kingside. Additionally, Be7 helps to control the d4 square, which can be used by White's knight to mount an attack. By keeping the bishop on the long diagonal, Black also prepares to use it for a potential counterattack on the queenside with b5 and a6. In sum, Be7 is a solid and flexible move that helps Black to coordinate their pieces and maintain harmony in their position.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Be7

Re1

+0.43

After the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7, White playing Re1 is a common move in the Ruy Lopez opening. This move aims to develop the rook and prepares to exert pressure on the e5 pawn. Additionally, Re1 helps to connect the rooks and prepare for potential tactical opportunities in the center or on the queenside. By developing their pieces in a coordinated and flexible way, White sets the stage for further strategic choices depending on Black's response. However, Re1 can also potentially block the bishop on c1. In sum, Re1 is a solid move that develops a major piece and prepares for further positional maneuvers.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Re1

b5

+0.89

Playing b5 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 is a common and aggressive choice for Black. This move aims to challenge the bishop on a4 and force it to move or trade it off for Black's knight on c6. Additionally, b5 helps to control the c4 and d3 squares, which can be used by White's pieces to mount an attack on Black's position. This move also prepares a potential queenside counterattack, which can be used to create weaknesses in White's camp and open lines for the black rooks. However, b5 also weakens Black's position on the queenside and can give White an opportunity to launch an attack. In sum, b5 is a sharp move that carries both risks and rewards, and Black must carefully evaluate the potential consequences of this move before playing it.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation b5

Bb3

+0.15

In the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation, White playing Bb3 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 is a flexible move that prepares to further develop the bishop by bringing it out towards the center. This move also prepares the possibility of moving the d3-knight to c4, eyeing both the b6 and d6 squares while putting pressure on Black's position. By placing the bishop on an active square, White also controls key diagonals and prepares to attack Black's position in the center and on the queenside. However, Bb3 also slightly weakens the dark squares, which Black can potentially exploit if they play accurately. In sum, Bb3 is an important step in the opening that provides White with more options while maintaining the initiative.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Bb3

d6

+0.84

Playing d6 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 is a common and solid choice for Black. This move prepares to protect the e5-pawn, which might come under attack from White's pieces, and allows Black to defend their position and develop their pieces. Additionally, d6 helps to control the center and the d5-square, which might be used by White's pieces to mount an attack. By keeping the pawn chain solid and building a strong defense, Black creates a solid foundation for their position, which can be used to launch counterattacks in the future. However, d6 also slightly restricts the bishop on c8, which may require further moves to develop it effectively. In sum, d6 is a standard and flexible move that helps Black to establish control in the center.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation d6

c3

+0.11

Playing c3 after the moves 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 d6, is a typical move in the Ruy Lopez opening. This move aims to gain control of the d4-square by protecting the pawn on d4, which is a key center square. Additionally, c3 prepares to support the d4-pawn with the d3-knight, and helps to limit any potential threats that Black's pawn on b5 might pose. By developing the pawn structure in a flexible way, White sets the stage for further development and prepares to exert pressure on Black's position. However, c3 also creates a potential backward pawn on d3, which Black can potentially target in the future. In sum, c3 is a positional move that sets up the potential for future tactical opportunities.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation c3

O-O

+0.82

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation O-O

h3

+0.38

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation h3

Na5

+0.87

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Na5

Bc2

+0.53

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Bc2

c5

+0.92

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation c5

d4

+0.32

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation d4

Nc6

+1.17

This move is not described yet.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation Nc6

How to play the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation starts with 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 d6 8.c3 O-O 9.h3 Na5 10.Bc2 c5 11.d4 Nc6.

The most important objective of this opening is to control the center of the board in a solid and flexible manner.

Additionally, players should strive to develop their minor pieces carefully and efficiently.

It's essential to keep an eye on possible counterattacks, as this opening can leave some weak spots undefended.

Lastly, knowledge of positional and strategic concepts will be crucial to maneuver the position successfully.

How to counter the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation can be a tough nut to crack, but players can counter it with a few strategies.

One way is to aim for a pawn break to destabilize the opponent's position. Another option is to place pressure on the central pawns to provoke weaknesses.

Additionally, focusing on developing minor pieces actively and preparing tactical threats can be effective.

It's crucial not to fall for traps, and to keep an eye on possible counterattacks from the opponent. Lastly, a deep understanding of strategic and positional concepts will be a great advantage in countering this opening successfully.

Pawn structure in the Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation

The pawn structure of Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation is essential for understanding possible plans and strategies.

White has a pawn chain on e4-d4-c3, and black has a pawn chain on e5-d6-c5.

This structure offers a solid and flexible position for both sides, making it hard to launch a direct attack.

Furthermore, as the position progresses and the minor pieces are developed, both sides will have the opportunity to create weaknesses in the opponent's pawn structure.

In sum, controlling the center of the board from the early stages and aiming to exploit potential weaknesses in the pawn structure are key concepts when playing this opening.

The papachess advice

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation is a strategic chess opening that requires a deep understanding of pawn structures, plans, and counterplans. This opening's strong points are its solid and flexible pawn structures, ability to control the center of the board, and resistance to direct attacks. Its weakness is the high level of difficulty required to play it successfully. There are numerous possibilities for both white and black pieces to develop their positions and exploit their opponents' potential weaknesses. To play successfully, players must have a deep understanding of positional, tactical, and strategic concepts. The pawn structure is essential in this opening, and players should prioritize controlling the center of the board. Countering this opening requires a variety of strategies, including pawn breaks, pressure, active development of minor pieces, and preparation of tactical threats. A move-by-move analysis is a valuable tool to understand and master this opening. In conclusion, Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation is a complex but fascinating opening that can offer exciting and challenging games.

Ruy Lopez: Closed, Borisenko Variation in brief

Eco code : C96

Solid pawn structure

flexible

controls the center

hard to attack

Requires deep understanding and knowledge

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