Catalan Opening: Open Defense
ECO E04
Move order
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. g3 d5 4. Bg2 dxc4 5. Nf3
Ideas
ECO E covers Indian defenses and related systems where Black fianchettoes or pressures the center from the flanks. 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.