ECO B20ECO B27ECO B50 Play as Black
Sicilian Defense
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Moves
- 1.
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About the Sicilian Defense
Black's most popular response to 1.e4, creating asymmetrical positions with winning chances for both sides.
Move by move
- White takes central space.
- The Sicilian! Black fights for the d4 square while avoiding symmetry.
Lines with this name
The ECO classification gives the name Sicilian Defense to 3 lines:
- B20 1. e4 c5
- B27 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3
- B50 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4
Counter this opening
How to respond when your opponent plays the Sicilian Defense
Anti-Sicilian: Smith-Morra Gambit A sharp gambit where White sacrifices a pawn for rapid development and open lines. Popular at club level for its attacking potential.Anti-Sicilian: Alapin Variation A solid Anti-Sicilian that prepares d4 without allowing Black typical Sicilian counterplay. Less theoretical than the Open Sicilian.Anti-Sicilian: Grand Prix Attack An aggressive system where White plays f4 early, aiming for a kingside attack. Named after the Grand Prix tournament circuit where it was popular.