The Balogh variation is a very double-edged sideline white could use against the Alekhine Defense.
For the basics of the Alekhine, watch this introductory video: https://youtu.be/aGqrrBLcaMM
In the position where white usually plays Nf3 or c4, entering “normal” lines against the provocative Nf6, white now goes for the very aggressive Bc4! This move, even though it might seem straightforward and aggressive at first glance, has a lot of venom in it for white, and can result in serious positional disadvantages.
The main idea is to develop quickly, while at the same time asking a question to the knight on d5. This means that black is forced to react – it’s a tempo move. But it’s not that simple. Black’s main move is a simple retreat to b6, as in other variations. He can also defend the knight with c6, or expose the queen to the defense by exchanging the central pawns. In each case, black can efficiently defend against white’s threat.
The engines evaluate the position after Bc4 as already equal or slightly better for black! That is very rare in openings such as the Alekhine, where black makes maneuvers which make no sense according to classical chess principles. The main reason for that is that in many variations white won’t be able to exchange his overextended e5 pawn which can often prove to be a liability rather than a strength. This means that white will have to compensate for the weakness by attacking or simply dissolve it if possible.
All in all, the Balogh variation is an imbalanced line which is sure to result in an attacking game and a middlegame which neither player will be too familiar with. This is good for black and for white – both sides can play for the win! Same as with the Alekhine being a fighting defense for black, not wanting to get familiar, equal positions, the Balogh is the same for white; white refuses to enter the known theoretical lines and fights!
If you would like to support the channel and my quest to chess improvement, you can donate here: https://www.paypal.me/HangingPawns
Any support is greatly appreciated! Thank you!
#chess