English - Anglo-Gruenfeld defense

The Anglo-Grünfeld Defence arises after 1.c4 Nf6 2.Nc3 d5. ECO code: A16.

Overview

Black challenges White's c4-pawn with ...d5, creating positions related to the Grünfeld Defence but in an English Opening context. The name reflects this hybrid character.

Main Lines

After 3.cxd5 Nxd5:

• 4.g3 – The main line, leading to a fianchetto system. After 4...g6 5.Bg2, Black can play 5...Nxc3 (Smyslov Defence) or 5...Nb6 (Czech Defence).

• 4.Nf3 – A more flexible approach, allowing various pawn structures including 4...g6 5.g3 Bg7 6.Bg2 e5 (Korchnoi Variation).

Strategic Themes & Plans

Black adopts a Grünfeld Defence-like strategy: conceding the centre initially and then undermining it with piece pressure from the flanks. White aims to establish a strong centre with d4 and e4, while Black counterattacks with ...c5, ...Bg7, and piece activity.