Queen's pawn - Franco-Indian (Keres) defence

The Franco-Indian (Keres) Defence arises after 1.d4 e6 2.c4 Bb4+. ECO code: A40.

Overview

This sharp response gives an immediate check, disrupting White's development. The position echoes themes from the Nimzo-Indian Defence but without ...Nf6 first.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White must respond with 3.Bd2, 3.Nc3, or 3.Nd2. After 3.Bd2 Bxd2+ 4.Qxd2, the position is simplified but Black has traded a bishop for the opponent's bishop pair. The opening is playable but somewhat unusual, and can transpose into Nimzo-Indian Defence or Bogo-Indian Defence structures depending on subsequent play.