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Learn the Sicilian: Alapin Variation

Learn the Sicilian: Alapin Variation

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Learn an important opening for White against the Sicilian Defense.

The Alapin Variation of the Sicilian Defense is a logical attempt for White to avoid the complexities of the Open Sicilian. White aims to control the center, but risks falling behind in development. Learn the key ideas in this important variation for both sides.

  • Learn key ideas and plans for both sides.
  • Practice tactics.
  • Review a model game for White.

Learn the Sicilian: Alapin Variation

The Open Variation of the Sicilian Defense offers Black significant counterplay. Sometimes White prefers to avoid this with the move 2.c3. This variation allows White an opportunity to control the center with the advance d2-d4, but also gives Black chances to take advantage of White's failure to develop on move two.
17 min
10 Challenges

Sicilian Alapin Thematic Tactics

Learn the common tactical ideas in the Sicilian Alapin for both White and Black.
10 Challenges

Sicilian Alapin Model Game

The Alapin is more common at the club level, but even strong Grandmasters play it on occasion. In this game the great Maxime Vachier Lagrave tried it in a crucial playoff match against GM Alexander Moiseenko to decide the Biel Tournament in 2013. Try to find MVL's moves in this great clash.
1 Challenge

Learn the Sicilian: Alapin Variation

Openingen
3 Lessons
17 Minutes
21 Challenges
Released 2/27/2020

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