Semi-Slav Defense: Stoltz Variation, Center Variation
ECO D45
Move order
1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. Nc3 e6 5. e3 Nbd7 6. Qc2 Bd6 7. e4
Ideas
ECO D covers queen-pawn games and closed structures, including many Gambits and the Queen's Gambit complex. 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.