Dutch Defense (for Black)

The Dutch Defense (1.d4 f5) controls e4 with the f-pawn from the very first move. It is a fighting defense that unbalances the game and prepares a kingside attack.

The principle

Black prevents the e4 push and gains space on the kingside. In return, the black king is a bit more exposed: it must be tucked away quickly.

The main line: the Stonewall

2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Bg2 d5 5.Nf3 c6 6.O-O Bd6 7.b3 Qe7 8.Bb2. Black's pawns form a wall on the light squares; the black knight will often settle on e4 and the attack will come on the kingside.

Main variations

• Leningrad Variation: 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 g6 4.Nf3 Bg7 5.O-O O-O 6.c4 d6 7.Nc3 Qe8 8.d5 a5. Black's fianchettoed bishop gives a game close to the King's Indian.
• Classical Variation: 4...Be7 5.Nf3 O-O 6.O-O d6 7.Nc3 Qe8. Black stays flexible and prepares the e5 push.
• Staunton Gambit: 2.e4 fxe4 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Bg5 Nc6 5.d5 Ne5 6.Qd4 Nf7. White sacrifices a pawn to attack: you must know the first moves.

Typical mistakes

With Black, forgetting king safety: the diagonal leading to g8 and e8 opens quickly. With White, letting the black knight settle on e4 without challenging it.

Coach's advice

The Dutch suits fighters who want to play for a win with Black. Remember the Stonewall and the knight on e4. Click the colored moves to follow each line, then ask me your questions.

Main line

1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Bg2 d5 5.Nf3 c6 6.O-O Bd6 7.b3 Qe7 8.Bb2