When declining a gambit can be powerful! – IM Andrew Martin

January 8, 2015 NHaselton Chess Lectures

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In the video “Benko Declined” by IM Andrew Martin, we see some of the ways that White can decline the sacrificed pawn in the powerful Benko Gambit opening.

Because the Benko Gambit can be such a strong opening, many players prefer to avoid accepting the gambit and decide to steer the game down a different path. Many dangerous systems have been developed, and Black must be careful if he wants to emerge with a good game.

Andrew begins by examining the different moves that White can play to decline Black’s pawn sacrifice. We are then shown Black’s best strategy against each of these move options and how he can get a good game despite White not accepting the gambit. Andrew also shows games that were played in some of the variations, so we can see examples to emulate.

Does Black still end up with a strong position despite his sacrifice being declined? How can White try to trip up Black in key positions? What can Black do to overcome these ideas? Watch the video to find out!

Interface used ICC: http://www.chessclub.com/from/WStewart/

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