Rat Defense: Balogh Defense
ECO A82
Move order
1. e4 d6 2. d4 f5
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.