Benoni Defense: French Benoni

ECO A43

Move order

1. e4 e6 2. d4 c5 3. d5

Benoni Defense: French Benoni (A43)abcdefgh12345678

Ideas

ECO A covers irregular and flank openings—systems that skip the main e4/d4 fight early. White stakes a claim in the center and opens lines for the bishop and queen. The variation is defined by a short, recognizable move order. 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