C42
Petrov Defense
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6
In the Petrov Defense, aim to understand the plans and pawn structures, not just memorize the first moves.
The Petrov Defense is a chess opening classified under ECO code C42. It is reached after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6: 4 moves in, with White to play.
Learn its typical plans and pawn structures rather than memorizing moves — that’s what holds up over the board.
2 named variations branch from this position; the list at the end of the page goes one move deeper into each.
Play the Petrov Defense? See where you go wrong.
Deepline reviews your real games, finds the exact moves that cost you, and trains the fixes.
Analyze my games free →Variations of the Petrov Defense
- Classical1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4
- Stafford Gambit1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 Nc6
Related openings
Petrov Defense: ClassicalPetrov's DefensePetrov's Defense: Classical AttackPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Berger VariationPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Chigorin VariationPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation, Browne AttackPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation, Main LinePetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Closed VariationPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Jaenisch VariationPetrov's Defense: Classical Attack, Krause Variation