Semi-Slav Defense: Normal Variation

ECO D45

Move order

1. Nf3 d5 2. e3 Nf6 3. c4 c6 4. Nc3 e6 5. b3 Bd6 6. Bb2 O-O 7. d4 Nbd7

Semi-Slav Defense: Normal Variation (D45)abcdefgh12345678

Ideas

ECO D covers queen-pawn games and closed structures, including many Gambits and the Queen's Gambit complex. White develops a knight and keeps flexible transpositions into d4 or c4 setups. 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