Sicilian Defense: Moscow Variation

The Moscow Variation (1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.Bb5+), also called the Canal–Sokolsky Attack, is White's most important alternative to 3.d4 against 2...d6 in the Sicilian Defense. Instead of opening the centre, White gives a bishop check and often exchanges it.

Origins

Grandmasters sometimes choose the Moscow when they want to avoid theory; Garry Kasparov played it in the online game Kasparov versus the World. Sergei Rublevsky and Tomáš Oral are experts in the line.

The idea

After the check Black must block. In the main line White trades the light-squared bishop and then builds a centre with c3 and d4, or sets up a Maróczy Bind with c4. By not playing 3.d4, White also avoids the Open Sicilian main lines such as the Najdorf.

Main lines

• 3...Bd7, the main line and Black's most common choice. After 4.Bxd7+ Qxd7 White can play 5.O-O followed by c3 and d4, or 5.c4 in Maróczy Bind style, the Sokolsky Variation.
• 3...Nc6, a position also reached from the Rossolimo Variation after 2...Nc6 3.Bb5 d6.
• 3...Nd7, the third way to block the check.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

• White avoids the main lines of the Najdorf and Dragon with a simple, positional set-up.
• A clear plan with c3 and d4, or a Maróczy Bind with c4.

Weaknesses

• Black has three ways to block the check and is not forced into one structure.

Who should play it

The Moscow suits White players who meet the Sicilian with 2.Nf3 but want to avoid the Najdorf and Dragon theory after 2...d6, and who are happy with a positional game.

The numbers

On Lichess Black leads below 1800, 48.6% against 47.1% under 1400 and 47.7% against 47.3% at 1400–1799. From 1800 White pulls ahead, 49.0% against 44.7% at 1800–2199 and 49.1% against 42.4% from 2200 up. In about 28,400 master games 47.2% were drawn; White won 27.4% and Black 25.4%.