English Opening: Symmetrical Variation, Mecking Variation
ECO A39
Move order
1. c4 Nf6 2. Nf3 c5 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 g6 5. Bg2 Bg7 6. O-O O-O 7. d4
Ideas
ECO A covers irregular and flank openings—systems that skip the main e4/d4 fight early. White controls d5 without committing the d-pawn—the English family. 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.