Semi-Slav Defense: Normal Variation
Overview
Semi-Slav Defense: Normal Variation sits at the top of the Closed & Semi-Closed Games tree, indexed as ECO D45.
The Closed & Semi-Closed Games group covers closed and semi-closed games — 1.d4 systems characterised by long strategic manoeuvring rather than early tactics.
The line arises from 14 plies — specifically the moves 1. Nf3 d5 2. e3 Nf6 3. c4 c6 4. Nc3 e6 5. b3 Bd6 6. Bb2 O-O 7. d4 Nbd7.
Use the board to walk through every move, check how the position has scored on Lichess, or take it head-to-head against Stockfish.
- ECO code
- D45
- Group
- Closed & Semi-Closed Games (D)
- Plies
- 14
This overview is generated automatically from the opening's metadata. Know this line well? Write a description — submissions are reviewed before publishing.
Statistics from Lichess
42,634 games · White 47.6% / Draw 6.8% / Black 45.6%
| Moves | Games | W / D / B |
|---|---|---|
| Bd3 | 22,113 | |
| Be2 | 12,499 | |
| Qc2 | 2,830 | |
| Rc1 | 1,481 | |
| c5 | 1,427 | |
| cxd5 | 950 | |
| g3 | 480 | |
| h3 | 275 |
Source: Lichess Opening Explorer · cached 2026-09-26 03:00:08
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Submissions are reviewed before publishing.