Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Endgame Variation

ECO B22

Move order

1. e4 c5 2. c3 d5 3. exd5 Qxd5 4. d4 cxd4 5. cxd4 Nc6 6. Nf3 Bg4 7. Nc3 Bxf3 8. gxf3 Qxd4 9. Qxd4 Nxd4

Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Endgame Variation (B22)abcdefgh12345678

Ideas

ECO B covers semi-open games after 1. e4 where Black does not reply …e5. White stakes a claim in the center and opens lines for the bishop and queen. 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