Slav Defense (for Black)

The Slav Defense (1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6) supports the d5 pawn with the c-pawn, without locking in the c8 bishop as the e6 push would. It is one of the most solid defenses against the Queen's Gambit.

The principle

Black keeps a foothold in the center and can develop the light-squared bishop outside the pawn chain, often to f5 or g4.

The main line

3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3 dxc4. Black takes the c4 pawn at the right moment; 4...dxc4 5.a4 prevents the b5 push, which would hold on to the pawn. After 5...Bf5 6.e3 e6 7.Bxc4 Bb4 8.O-O O-O, White has regained the pawn and Black has developed the c8 bishop before playing e6.

Main variations

• Semi-Slav (Meran Variation): 4...e6 5.e3 Nbd7 6.Bd3 dxc4 7.Bxc4 b5. Black gains time on the bishop and prepares the c5 push: the structure is richer and sharper.
• Chebanenko Variation: 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3 a6 5.e3 b5 6.b3. Black prepares b5 before deciding what to do with the d5 pawn.
• Exchange Variation: 3.cxd5 cxd5 4.Nc3 Nf6 5.Bf4 Nc6 6.e3. A symmetrical, quiet structure where White keeps the advantage of the move.

Typical mistakes

With Black, taking on c4 and then trying to keep the pawn at all costs wastes time. With White, don't regain the c4 pawn if it delays your development: it will not run away.

Coach's advice

The Slav is an excellent choice for a solid player: remember where the c8 bishop goes and when to take on c4. Click the colored moves to see each line, then ask me your questions.

Main line

1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3 dxc4 5.a4 Bf5 6.e3 e6 7.Bxc4 Bb4 8.O-O O-O