Nimzo-Indian Defense: Spielmann Variation, Stahlberg Variation

ECO E23

Move order

1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qb3 c5 5. dxc5 Nc6 6. Nf3 Ne4 7. Bd2 Nxc5 8. Qc2 f5 9. g3

Nimzo-Indian Defense: Spielmann Variation, Stahlberg Variation (E23)abcdefgh12345678

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.

Play this opening against Maia