The Najdorf (part 2) ⎸Sicilian Defense Theory

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In part 2 of the Sicilian Najdorf we are going over five different variations. Three of them are considered to be “main lines” and sound for white. Two aren’t considered precise.

Introduction to the Sicilian Defense: youtu.be/impkeLfyyVM

The Najdorf part 1 (English Attack, Main Line, Opocensky, f3 line): youtu.be/BPg1bSeJYNg

6. Bc4 – the Fischer-Sozin Attack is one of the sharpest lines in the Najdorf Sicilian. The purpose of the move is to place the bishop on the most active diagonal immediately and to put pressure on black’s kingside.

6. f4 – the Amsterdam Variation; a very aggressive approach to the Najdorf, in which white combines ideas from the English Attack and from the Grand Prix Sicilian.

6. h3 – the Adams Attack; named after Michael Adams, this simple, yet tricky move to face is often overlooked by Najdorf players. It simply prepares the g4 pawn thrust which can often lead to a deadly pawn storm on black’s kingside.

6. g3 – a fairly uncommon line against a6. This move is simply preparing to fianchetto the kingside bishop. It often leads to positions similar to the King’s Indian Attack.

6. Rg1 – the Freak Attack. As the name says, this line is very unsound for white. Nevertheless, it can pose a significant threat to black’s king safety if he doesn’t react properly.