B20
Sicilian Defense
1. e4 c5
The Sicilian is the most-played and most-analyzed defense to 1.e4. Black declines symmetry and fights for the center on their own terms, often emerging with a queenside majority and counterattacking chances.
It is the choice of players who want to win with Black. The downside is theory: lines like the Najdorf and Dragon are sharp and well-mapped, so know the ideas, not just moves.
Key plans
- Open Sicilian: 2. Nf3 then 3. d4 — most critical.
- Black’s counterplay usually comes on the c-file and queenside.
- Beginners can meet it with the calm c3-Sicilian (Alapin).
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