Playing for a win in symmetrical positions · Road to GM, Game 239

February 22, 2022 NHaselton Uncategorized

Hanging PawnsTue, February 22, 2022 7:09amURL:
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When the position is symmetrical and the material equal, winning is much harder, and creating any chances is improbable, barring a mistake from your opponent.

A perfect example of such a position is the Exchange Slav, a symmetrical opening with one open file and equal material. I played against a lower rated opponent and had to win. I tried out a strategy I had prepared a while back, after a painful draw in the same variation. I gave up my bishop pair to complicate the position and create an imbalance.

Objectively, giving your opponent the bishop pair is a dubious decision, but in closed positions, where the center can be kept under relative control, it is not too dangerous. It paid off. I started putting pressure on my opponent and he made a mistake.

Rausa G. (1775) – Tomic S. (1987)
Exchange Slav
Limone Piemonte Open 2022, Round 5

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