Benoni Defense: Classical Variation, Full Line

ECO A74

Move order

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 e6 4. Nc3 exd5 5. cxd5 d6 6. e4 g6 7. Nf3 Bg7 8. Be2 O-O 9. O-O a6 10. a4

Benoni Defense: Classical Variation, Full Line (A74)abcdefgh12345678

Ideas

ECO A covers irregular and flank openings—systems that skip the main e4/d4 fight early. White builds a pawn center and keeps the position more closed than after 1. e4. This entry tracks a longer branch in the opening tree. Use the diagram and SAN list to recognize the tabiya, then try the line against Maia to explore typical plans in practice.

Play this opening against Maia