The Zukertort System

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A Guide for W

A Guide for White and Black

hite and Black

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM:

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Introduction

Once, back when I was playing in the Soviet Junior Championship, a game that Once, back when I was playing in the Soviet Junior Championship, a game that was

was being being played on played on a a board board next next to to me me caught caught my my eye. eye. White White had had developed hisdeveloped his bishops

bishops to to b2 b2 and and d3 d3 and and his his knights knights to to f3 f3 and and d2, d2, had had created created an an attack attack and and waswas confidently winning. My neighbor’s game made a strong impression on me, but my confidently winning. My neighbor’s game made a strong impression on me, but my opening repertoire at the time began with the move e2-e4...

opening repertoire at the time began with the move e2-e4...

Many years later, in the European Team Championship in Plovdiv in 1983, I Many years later, in the European Team Championship in Plovdiv in 1983, I wanted

wanted to to experiment experiment as as White White and and I I remembered remembered that that episode. episode. The The “novel“novelty”ty” turned out to be successful and I won two colorful games with the “new” system. I turned out to be successful and I won two colorful games with the “new” system. I was faced with an

was faced with an unexpected problem: what to unexpected problem: what to call this new openicall this new opening, of which ng, of which I’dI’d only just become an admirer. The official name, “Queen’s Pawn Opening,” didn’t only just become an admirer. The official name, “Queen’s Pawn Opening,” didn’t suit me, of course. In honor of the famous German grandmaster Zukertort, who suit me, of course. In honor of the famous German grandmaster Zukertort, who played a number of brilliant games and from time to time used the system 1. d4, 2. played a number of brilliant games and from time to time used the system 1. d4, 2.

C

C_{f3, and 3. e3, I started calling the new system the Zukertort Opening. Some time}_{f3, and 3. e3, I started calling the new system the Zukertort Opening. Some time}

later (but “drops of water will eventually wear away a stone”) the new name for the later (but “drops of water will eventually wear away a stone”) the new name for the interesting opening system caught on.

interesting opening system caught on.

I have now been using the Zukertort in practical play for over 25 years, and with I have now been using the Zukertort in practical play for over 25 years, and with its help I have achieved some rather good results. Of

its help I have achieved some rather good results. Of course, this isn’t the most course, this isn’t the most activeactive system, but it is based on the good positional concept of fighting for the center and it system, but it is based on the good positional concept of fighting for the center and it has every right to exist. Even many

has every right to exist. Even many strong opponents ostrong opponents of mine have found themselvesf mine have found themselves unprepared for its novel problems, falling into bad positions right off the bat. unprepared for its novel problems, falling into bad positions right off the bat. Cer-tainly, if White manages to implement the main strategic idea – placing the knight tainly, if White manages to implement the main strategic idea – placing the knight on e5 and reinforcing it there, and maintaining control over the e4 square – then on e5 and reinforcing it there, and maintaining control over the e4 square – then Black will have nothing to celebrate!

Black will have nothing to celebrate!

Of course, the Zukertort isn’t some kind

Of course, the Zukertort isn’t some kind of universal weapon. So against the Slavof universal weapon. So against the Slav or the King’s Indian Defense it’s better to look for more active variations. But if or the King’s Indian Defense it’s better to look for more active variations. But if your opponent

your opponent prefers to prefers to play the Queen’s play the Queen’s Gambit or Gambit or the Nimzo-Indian, the Nimzo-Indian, then thethen the Zukertort is a good alternative to the standard openings. I’m very pleased that many Zukertort is a good alternative to the standard openings. I’m very pleased that many chessplay

chessplayers have followed my example and iners have followed my example and included the Zukertort in cluded the Zukertort in their openingtheir opening repertoire.

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Unfortunately

Unfortunately, I still have not managed to , I still have not managed to start writing a book start writing a book about this opening,about this opening, although I gladly show specific variations to my students. So Grigory Bogdanovich although I gladly show specific variations to my students. So Grigory Bogdanovich decided to compensate for this gap

decided to compensate for this gap in the literature and has win the literature and has written a very interestingritten a very interesting work on

work on this fathis fascinating scinating opening. opening. Readers Readers will will get get the the opportunity opportunity not not only only to to fa- fa-miliarize themselves with the different variations and setups, but also to

miliarize themselves with the different variations and setups, but also to study manystudy many typical middlegame ideas

typical middlegame ideas that have universal value.that have universal value.

Artur Y

Artur Yusupovusupov July 2010 July 2010

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If you play the Zukertort System in If you play the Zukertort System in the Queen’s Pawn Opening, I advise you the Queen’s Pawn Opening, I advise you to read the book that you hold in your to read the book that you hold in your hands. With few exceptions, and despite hands. With few exceptions, and despite its popularity, theorists haven’t favored its popularity, theorists haven’t favored this opening with their attentions. In this opening with their attentions. In fairness I should note that in 2008, when fairness I should note that in 2008, when I had already prepared my book for I had already prepared my book for dis-cussion with the publisher, two books cussion with the publisher, two books came out, by Richard Palliser (

came out, by Richard Palliser (StartingStarting Out: d-Pawn Attacks

Out: d-Pawn Attacks ) and David Rudel) and David Rudel ((Zuke ’Em: The Colle-Zukertort Revolu-Zuke ’Em: The Colle-Zukertort Revolu-tionized

tionized ). But then there is a great deal). But then there is a great deal of material in these two titles that is not of material in these two titles that is not relevant to our subject. While its cousin, relevant to our subject. While its cousin, the Colle System, has been spoiled by the Colle System, has been spoiled by the attention of theoreticians, and more the attention of theoreticians, and more than one book has been devoted to it, than one book has been devoted to it, the Zukertort System, like Cinderella, is the Zukertort System, like Cinderella, is waiting for its day

waiting for its day..

I was also waiting for one of the I was also waiting for one of the grandmasters who play the opening, like grandmasters who play the opening, like Artur Yusupo

Artur Yusupovv, to , to write a write a book about book about it.it. But, alas... And then I decided to But, alas... And then I decided to fol-low the advice of the famous English low the advice of the famous English novelist and politician Benjamin novelist and politician Benjamin Dis-raeli: “When I want to read a book, I raeli: “When I want to read a book, I write one.” I

write one.” I had long had long been planning been planning toto eliminate this inequity: you won’t find eliminate this inequity: you won’t find such detailed coverage of the Zukertort such detailed coverage of the Zukertort System anywhere else. I’ve been playing System anywhere else. I’ve been playing this system for a long time, and I love it, this system for a long time, and I love it, and that’s why I

and that’s why I always keep track of eve-always keep track of

eve-Foreword

Foreword

rything that has to do with it, wherever rything that has to do with it, wherever that may be. Since I have an inclination that may be. Since I have an inclination towards analytical work, I’ve always tried towards analytical work, I’ve always tried to understand it from every angle. And to understand it from every angle. And you will

you will see that in see that in the Zukertort the Zukertort SystemSystem there is no use for the recommendations there is no use for the recommendations of theoreticians who write according to of theoreticians who write according to the standards of a well-known phrase the standards of a well-known phrase from that masterpiece of Soviet cinema, from that masterpiece of Soviet cinema, Gentlemen of Fortune

Gentlemen of Fortune : “Don’t go there,: “Don’t go there, go

go there! there! ”; or of “doctor theoreticians””; or of “doctor theoreticians” with

with their their advice: advice: “play “play a2-a3 a2-a3 to to avoidavoid a headache.” This doesn’t only apply a headache.” This doesn’t only apply to the Zukertort System, of course, but to the Zukertort System, of course, but also to other openings.

also to other openings.

The history of an opening, just like The history of an opening, just like the history of anything, has its the history of anything, has its inconsis-tencies. Consider the name, for example: tencies. Consider the name, for example: the “Colle-Zukertort System.” Those the “Colle-Zukertort System.” Those who

who have have some some familiarfamiliarity ity with with it it willwill wonde

wonder immediatelr immediately: what’s Colle doiny: what’s Colle doingg here? According to the computer here? According to the computer databases he onl

bases he only playy played it a couple of tied it a couple of times,mes, and then not the main lines of the system. and then not the main lines of the system. And

And I I woulwould d also also ask: ask: what what was Zuker-was Zuker-tort’s contribution to the system that is tort’s contribution to the system that is named after him? Again according to the named after him? Again according to the databases and also the thick books about databases and also the thick books about Zukertort, we can see that the subject of Zukertort, we can see that the subject of our discussion occupies a meager place in our discussion occupies a meager place in the story of its creation. But it was worth the story of its creation. But it was worth it for him to shine in this opening field, it for him to shine in this opening field, and the magic of his name worked: it will and the magic of his name worked: it will be

be associatassociated ed with with this this opening opening setupsetup forever. Neither Colle nor Zukertort forever. Neither Colle nor Zukertort

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re-searched or invented this system. And searched or invented this system. And to judge by the number of games played, to judge by the number of games played, another person is no less significant, and another person is no less significant, and perhaps even more so: Akiba Rubinstein perhaps even more so: Akiba Rubinstein exceeds them both put together. That’s exceeds them both put together. That’s why in the

why in the WWest the Zukertort System isest the Zukertort System is sometimes known as the Rubinstein sometimes known as the Rubinstein At-tack. And if you look at our day, then the tack. And if you look at our day, then the contribution to the development of the contribution to the development of the Zukertort System by Grandmaster Zukertort System by Grandmaster Yu-supov (in no way the least of the modern supov (in no way the least of the modern chess elite) is much greater than the chess elite) is much greater than the “ser- vice” to

vice” to it it givegiven n by by the the aforementaforementionedioned gentlemen. So the Zukertort System has gentlemen. So the Zukertort System has also acquired a third name among “the also acquired a third name among “the masses”: the “Yusupovka.” However, we masses”: the “Yusupovka.” However, we have not set out to reinvestigate the name have not set out to reinvestigate the name of the system; we’ll just accept everything of the system; we’ll just accept everything as it’s been settled on.

as it’s been settled on.

The theoreticians of the past The theoreticians of the past proba- bly noticed a certain s

bly noticed a certain similarity in the ar-imilarity in the ar-rangement of White’s pieces: pawns on rangement of White’s pieces: pawns on d4 and e3, a bishop on d3,

d4 and e3, a bishop on d3, knights on d2knights on d2 and f3. And the difference doesn’t appear and f3. And the difference doesn’t appear to be very great: it’s all in the positioning to be very great: it’s all in the positioning of the b- and c-pawns, and in the of the b- and c-pawns, and in the avail-able spots for developing White’s able spots for developing White’s dark-squared bishop. So they decided to call squared bishop. So they decided to call White’s setup

White’s setup with d4, e3,with d4, e3,CC_f3,_f3,EE_{d3 the}_{d3 the}

Colle System. The setup with a pawn o Colle System. The setup with a pawn onn c3 is the Colle-Koltanowski System; the c3 is the Colle-Koltanowski System; the setup with the pawn on b3 is the setup with the pawn on b3 is the Colle-Zukertort System, and sometimes also Zukertort System, and sometimes also the Yusupov-Zukertort System. In her the Yusupov-Zukertort System. In her domestic opening nomenclature Russia domestic opening nomenclature Russia always goes her own way, establishing always goes her own way, establishing the following names respectively – the the following names respectively – the Colle System and the Zukertort System. Colle System and the Zukertort System. These are the

These are the ones we will follow. Againones we will follow. Again according to the databases, this setup according to the databases, this setup was first

was first used used for for White by White by WW.N. Potter.N. Potter

and Joseph

and Joseph Blackburne. MoreoverBlackburne. Moreover, they, they both made one of the main mov

both made one of the main moves in thees in the Zukertort System –

Zukertort System – CC_{f3-e5! Here are}_{f3-e5! Here are}

those games: those games:

Blackburne J. – Minckwitz J.

Berlin 1881 Berlin 1881 1. d4 d5 2. 1. d4 d5 2.CC_f3_f3CC_{f6 3. e3 e6 4. b3}_{f6 3. e3 e6 4. b3}

The game Potter W.N. – Blackburne The game Potter W.N. – Blackburne J., London 1876, continued: 4. J., London 1876, continued: 4. EEd3d3 E E_{d6 5. c4 0-0 6. 0-0 b6 7. b3}_{d6 5. c4 0-0 6. 0-0 b6 7. b3} EE_b7_{b7 8.}_8. E E_b2_b2CC_{bd7 9.}_{bd7 9.} CC_bd2_bd2GG_{e8 10.}_{e8 10.}CC_e5_e5CC_f8_f8

11. f4. The deployment of the white 11. f4. The deployment of the white pieces corresponds to the Pillsbury pieces corresponds to the Pillsbury for-mation in the Zukertort System, and mation in the Zukertort System, and Black has refrained from playing Black has refrained from playing …c7-c5. Blackburne remembered this game c5. Blackburne remembered this game and repeated the plan five years later! and repeated the plan five years later!

4...

4...EEe7 5.e7 5. EE b2 b2 c5.c5. And And afterafter 6.

6. EE_d3!?_d3!? _{there is a}_{there is a tabiya}_{tabiya from the}_{from the}

Zukertort System on the board. Zukertort System on the board.



 

 

   

   

    

 

 

 



6... 6...CC_{c6 7. 0-0 0-0 8.}_{c6 7. 0-0 0-0 8.} GG_{e1 b6 9.}_{e1 b6 9.} C C_bd2_bd2EE_{b7 10.}_{b7 10.}CC_e5_e5GG_{c8 11.}_{c8 11.}CC_df3_df3CC_d7_d7 12. 12. CC_хd7_хd7 II_{хd7 13. dxc5 bxc5 14. c4}_{хd7 13. dxc5 bxc5 14. c4} I I_{c7 15.}_{c7 15.}GG_{c1 dxc4 16.}_{c1 dxc4 16.}GG_{хc4 f5 17.}_{хc4 f5 17.}II_a1_a1 E E_{d6 18.}_{d6 18.} GG_h4_h4 II_{e7 19.}_{e7 19.} GG_h5_h5 CC_b4_b4_20._20.

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Foreword

E E_хg7_хg7 II_{хg7 21.}_{хg7 21.} GG_g5_g5 II_{хg5 22.}_{хg5 22.} CC_хg5_хg5 C C_{хd3 23.}_{хd3 23.} GG_d1_d1 EE_{e5 24.}_{e5 24.} II_b1_b1 CC_b4_b4_25._25. G G_d7_d7GG_{c7 26.}_{c7 26.}II_d1_d1CC_{d5 27.}_{d5 27.}GG_хc7_хc7EE_хc7_хc7 28. 28.CC_хe6_хe6GG_{f7 29.}_{f7 29.}II_h5_h5EE_{b6 30. e4}_{b6 30. e4}CC_f6_f6 31. 31. II_g5_g5++KK_{h8 32. exf5}_{h8 32. exf5} CC_{d7 33.}_{d7 33.} II_h5_h5 G G_{e7 34.}_{e7 34.} II_h4_h4 GG_{f7 35.}_{f7 35.} II_g3_g3 EE_{c6 36.}_{c6 36.} I I_d6_d6EE_{b5 37. g4}_{b5 37. g4}KK_{g8 38. a4}_{g8 38. a4}EE_{a6 39. a5}_{a6 39. a5} E

E_{хa5 40.}_{хa5 40.}II_хa6_хa6EE_{b6 41.}_{b6 41.}II_c8_c8₊₊CC_{f8 42.}_{f8 42.}

K

K_g2,_g2,_{and here Black gave up the fight.}_{and here Black gave up the fight.}

Digging around the databases I found Digging around the databases I found the following game Mahescanda – the following game Mahescanda – Co-chrane J., played even earlier than the chrane J., played even earlier than the above games, way back in 1851: 1. d4 d5 above games, way back in 1851: 1. d4 d5 2.

2.CC_{f3 e6 3. e3 c5 4.}_{f3 e6 3. e3 c5 4.}EE_d3_d3CC_{f6 5. 0-0}_{f6 5. 0-0}EE_e7_e7

6. c4 0-0 7. b3 cxd4 8. exd4

6. c4 0-0 7. b3 cxd4 8. exd4 CC_{c6 9.}_{c6 9.}EE_b2_b2

b6 10. a3 h

b6 10. a3 h6, and here Whi6, and here White broughte brought hist his knight out to a less characteristic square knight out to a less characteristic square for the Zukertort System, c3, instead for the Zukertort System, c3, instead of d2. We’ll see later on that even in the of d2. We’ll see later on that even in the Zukertort System the knight can also be Zukertort System the knight can also be developed to c3, so this position can developed to c3, so this position can cer-tainly be associated with the Zukertort tainly be associated with the Zukertort System. And do you know where this System. And do you know where this game was played? In Calcutta! So India game was played? In Calcutta! So India isn’t only the birthplace of elephants and isn’t only the birthplace of elephants and chess, but also of the Zukertort System! chess, but also of the Zukertort System! It’s quite possible that some meticulous It’s quite possible that some meticulous chess historian will discover an even chess historian will discover an even ear-lier game played with the Zukertort. lier game played with the Zukertort.

The contribution of the players I’ve The contribution of the players I’ve named consists of the fact that it was named consists of the fact that it was they who were the first to place the they who were the first to place the bishop in

bishop in an active poan active position on sition on d3. Andd3. And subsequently it was this deployment of subsequently it was this deployment of the bishop to d3 that became the axis the bishop to d3 that became the axis around which the theory of this system around which the theory of this system turns. By the way, the course of play with turns. By the way, the course of play with the bishop on e2 cannot be associated the bishop on e2 cannot be associated with

with the the Zukertort Zukertort System. System. So So a a ques- ques-tion arises for the authors of the tion arises for the authors of the

two- volume

volume Queen’s Pawn Opening Queen’s Pawn Opening , Anatoly, Anatoly Karpov and Nikolai Kalinichenko, who Karpov and Nikolai Kalinichenko, who believe: “...that the most beautiful game believe: “...that the most beautiful game with an

with an early е2-е3, early е2-е3, b2-b3 andb2-b3 and EE_c1-b2_c1-b2

was pla

was played, without a yed, without a doubt, by the doubt, by the FirstFirst Candidate [Zukertort - GB],” and they Candidate [Zukertort - GB],” and they reference the game Zukertort – reference the game Zukertort – Black- burne, London 1883.

burne, London 1883.

In a formal sense this assertion may In a formal sense this assertion may be correct,

be correct, but how is but how is the Zukertort the Zukertort Sys- Sys-tem relevant here? The bishop on e2 is tem relevant here? The bishop on e2 is a completely different line of play (true, a completely different line of play (true, in some subvariations the bishop may in some subvariations the bishop may find itself on e2 temporarily when it’s find itself on e2 temporarily when it’s chased from the d3 square), and the chased from the d3 square), and the au-thors themselves in their chapter thors themselves in their chapter dedi-cated to the Zukertort System examine cated to the Zukertort System examine it only in the variation where Black’s it only in the variation where Black’s light-squared bishop comes out to g4. light-squared bishop comes out to g4. But that variation can be viewed as a But that variation can be viewed as a wayway for Black to avoid playing on Zukertort for Black to avoid playing on Zukertort territory

territory. Some writers on . Some writers on our theme in-our theme in-clude the development of the bishop to clude the development of the bishop to e2 – if they even mention it at all – only e2 – if they even mention it at all – only as a

as a completely “foreign bodycompletely “foreign body.”.”

Many of the great chessplayers of Many of the great chessplayers of the past played this system. How the past played this system. How valu-able is an endorsement from names able is an endorsement from names like Alekhine, Bogolyubov, Gunsberg, like Alekhine, Bogolyubov, Gunsberg, Capablanca, Levenfish, Mar

Capablanca, Levenfish, Mar óó_{czy, Mar-}_czy,

Mar-shall, Pillsbury, Rubinstein, Tarrasch, shall, Pillsbury, Rubinstein, Tarrasch, Tartakover, Teichmann, Flohr, Tartakover, Teichmann, Flohr, Schlech-ter, Euwe, and Janowski? Tigran ter, Euwe, and Janowski? Tigran Petro-sian and Vasily Smyslov used it in their sian and Vasily Smyslov used it in their time. Among the modern chess elite it time. Among the modern chess elite it is constantly used

is constantly used by Artur Yusupov andby Artur Yusupov and Michal Krasenkow. Mark Taimanov, Michal Krasenkow. Mark Taimanov, Rafael Vaganian, Maia Chiburdanidze, Rafael Vaganian, Maia Chiburdanidze, Susan Polgar, Teimour Radjabov, and Susan Polgar, Teimour Radjabov, and many other well-known grandmasters many other well-known grandmasters

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have used it brilliantly

have used it brilliantly. So . So there is some-there is some-thing to use as an example.

thing to use as an example.

What

What attracts attracts us us to to the the ZukertortZukertort System? In the conclusion to my book System? In the conclusion to my book on the Nimzowitsch-Rubinstein on the Nimzowitsch-Rubinstein Sys-tem in the Sicilian Defense, I wrote tem in the Sicilian Defense, I wrote thatthat Nimzowitsch’s invention interested me Nimzowitsch’s invention interested me because

because you you didn’t didn’t have have to to memorizememorize long forced variations. In passing I’ll long forced variations. In passing I’ll add the comment by Mark Dvoretsky, add the comment by Mark Dvoretsky, that “your opening repertoire should that “your opening repertoire should be built

be built on on the capthe capabilities of abilities of your ownyour own memory.” So in the Zukertort there’s memory.” So in the Zukertort there’s no need to put your memory to the test. no need to put your memory to the test. The Zukertort System looks, figuratively The Zukertort System looks, figuratively speaking, like a sailboat (the pawn speaking, like a sailboat (the pawn struc-ture that is characteristic of the system ture that is characteristic of the system and the typical piece setup) with many and the typical piece setup) with many sails (the plans, methods, and sails (the plans, methods, and maneu- vers

vers that are that are inherent in inherent in and wand work specif-ork specif-ically in the Zukertort

ically in the Zukertort System). A playerSystem). A player of the Yusupovka must be a good of the Yusupovka must be a good “sail-or” in order to steer these kinds of or” in order to steer these kinds of boats.boats. Moreover

Moreover, the , the “wind” often “wind” often changes di-changes di-rection – that

rection – that is to sayis to say, Black’s reactions, Black’s reactions to White’s play are extremely varied and to White’s play are extremely varied and demand specific knowledge and skills demand specific knowledge and skills of the latter. Sometimes a small “gust of the latter. Sometimes a small “gust of wind,” in other words some of wind,” in other words some insig-nificant little technique on Black’s part, nificant little technique on Black’s part, can overturn the “sailboat” and lead to can overturn the “sailboat” and lead to defeat. That’s why it’s very important to defeat. That’s why it’s very important to know not only the strategy o

know not only the strategy of the system,f the system, but also its tactics.

but also its tactics.

This is the objective that the author This is the objective that the author sought when writing the book – to sought when writing the book – to re-flect the slightest nuances in the flect the slightest nuances in the prac-tical material, and not just general tical material, and not just general dis-cussions. Therefore, in addition to the cussions. Therefore, in addition to the general contents, the author brings in general contents, the author brings in

a list of “Tactical Methods and a list of “Tactical Methods and Strate- Strate-gic Themes.” The need for this list was gic Themes.” The need for this list was provoked by the circumstance that no provoked by the circumstance that no matter what plan we undertake in the matter what plan we undertake in the Zukertort System, any of the elements Zukertort System, any of the elements of this list may be encountered in it. Of of this list may be encountered in it. Of course, we can argue about the course, we can argue about the correct-ness of their classification, but the main ness of their classification, but the main purpose of the list is to draw

purpose of the list is to draw the reader’sthe reader’s attention to one possibility or another attention to one possibility or another for both sides in the Zukertort System. for both sides in the Zukertort System. Up until now

Up until now, emphasis has , emphasis has mainly beenmainly been placed on a traditional presentation of placed on a traditional presentation of the theoretical material, with the move the theoretical material, with the move order taking

order taking prioritypriority. Move order is . Move order is veryvery important, of course, and in the important, of course, and in the Zuker-tort System in particular. But the tort System in particular. But the gener-alized conclusion of some theoreticians alized conclusion of some theoreticians that you should make the move а2-а3 as that you should make the move а2-а3 as soon as possible, and not

soon as possible, and notCC_{b1-d2, is ex-}_{b1-d2, is}

ex-tremely dubious. The Zukertort System tremely dubious. The Zukertort System is multifaceted, and trying to channel it is multifaceted, and trying to channel it into a narrow rut is a very bad idea. In into a narrow rut is a very bad idea. In this book you will encounter themes this book you will encounter themes such as the Pillsbury formation, the long such as the Pillsbury formation, the long diagonal (а1-h8), the strategic diagonal diagonal (а1-h8), the strategic diagonal (b1-h7), and others.

(b1-h7), and others.

When

When writing writing this this book, book, I I startedstarted from the assumption that the reader has from the assumption that the reader has a sufficient grasp

a sufficient grasp of general chess theory.of general chess theory. Practical play shows that this system Practical play shows that this system requires familiarity with some areas of requires familiarity with some areas of general chess theory

general chess theory, such as , such as how to how to playplay with

with or or against against hanging hanging pawns pawns and and iso- iso-lated pawns, among others. It

lated pawns, among others. It would alsowould also be useful to be

be useful to be aware of certain oaware of certain openingpening variations,

variations, for for example, example, the the Queen’sQueen’s Indian (

Indian (ECO ECO code E14), into which code E14), into which the Zukertort System sometimes the Zukertort System sometimes trans-poses. I’ve already said that the poses. I’ve already said that the Zuker-tort System is distinguished by its strong tort System is distinguished by its strong

(10)

Foreword

interweaving of plans and the interweaving of plans and the multifac-eted improvised methods, that is to say, eted improvised methods, that is to say, techniques and elements of play. And techniques and elements of play. And more time is required from the reader more time is required from the reader toto master them than when you’re studying master them than when you’re studying other opening variations and openings. other opening variations and openings. Remember: “Knowledge is achieved at Remember: “Knowledge is achieved at a slow walk, not a fast gallop.”

a slow walk, not a fast gallop.”

This book will also be very This book will also be very use-ful to those who just want to improve ful to those who just want to improve their positional play. The reality is that their positional play. The reality is that in the Zukertort System you use “the in the Zukertort System you use “the kind of method of play where most of kind of method of play where most of your

your attention attention goes goes not not on on calculatingcalculating individual moves, but on drawing from individual moves, but on drawing from general principles.” Richard R

general principles.” Richard R éé_{ti called}_{ti called}

this method “position

this method “position playplay.” The goal .” The goal ofof position play is to create the position play is to create the precondi-tions for carrying out a combination, for tions for carrying out a combination, for a decisive game, or simply to obtain (or a decisive game, or simply to obtain (or increase) some kind of advantage. increase) some kind of advantage. Re-member the words of Emanuel Lasker: member the words of Emanuel Lasker: “Position play is preparation for

“Position play is preparation for combi- combi-national play.” For coaches it will make national play.” For coaches it will make the creation of your students’ opening the creation of your students’ opening repertoire considerably easier, if they repertoire considerably easier, if they are already familiar with the elements of are already familiar with the elements of position play.

position play.

A little about

A little about the materials dedicatedthe materials dedicated to the Zukertort System. It’s very to the Zukertort System. It’s very im-portant to know who they come from. portant to know who they come from. Some theorists latch on to any problem Some theorists latch on to any problem just

just so so that that they they can can write write something.something. For them the most important thing is to For them the most important thing is to jot anything down

jot anything down as quickly as possibleas quickly as possible and rush it to press. They find out what and rush it to press. They find out what they need and don’t need at the touch of they need and don’t need at the touch of a button on the computer keyboard, add a button on the computer keyboard, add stock phrases, and hand the latest “pie” stock phrases, and hand the latest “pie” they’ve half-baked to the

they’ve half-baked to the publisherpublisher. And. And

my doubts only increase when I see my doubts only increase when I see that they have never played the opening that they have never played the opening they’re writing about.

they’re writing about.

Of course, there are exceptions. For Of course, there are exceptions. For example, coaches whose students play example, coaches whose students play this or that variation. They “live through” this or that variation. They “live through” them together with their charges, but I them together with their charges, but I have observed that they don’t really like have observed that they don’t really like to share their knowledge, for

to share their knowledge, for completelycompletely understandable reasons. I always read understandable reasons. I always read the works on opening theory by GM the works on opening theory by GM Evgeny Sveshnikov with great interest. Evgeny Sveshnikov with great interest. In the first place, his belief in what he In the first place, his belief in what he plays makes a convincing impression plays makes a convincing impression on the reader. Secondly, it feels like he on the reader. Secondly, it feels like he himself has lived through everything that himself has lived through everything that he writes about. He doesn’t write about he writes about. He doesn’t write about anything and everything, although his anything and everything, although his knowledge and playing strength give him knowledge and playing strength give him the right to do that.

the right to do that.

Of the works dedicated to the Of the works dedicated to the Zuker-tort System I would single out a book by tort System I would single out a book by the American author David Rudel, the American author David Rudel, ZukeZuke ’Em: The

’Em: The Colle-Zukertort RevolutionizColle-Zukertort Revolutionized ed (Thinkers’ Press, 2008). Its main virtue, (Thinkers’ Press, 2008). Its main virtue, as the author tells us at the beginning of as the author tells us at the beginning of the book, is that it

the book, is that it is the first to be com-is the first to be com-pletely dedicated to the pletely dedicated to the Colle-Zuker-tort System. Never mind the fact that it tort System. Never mind the fact that it contains a great deal of material that is contains a great deal of material that is irrelevant to our topic. We’ll come back irrelevant to our topic. We’ll come back to that. A second, no less important to that. A second, no less important vir-tue of the book is that the author is very tue of the book is that the author is very enthusiastic about this subject and no enthusiastic about this subject and no shoddy work is evident. And this endears shoddy work is evident. And this endears me to Rudel’s book.

me to Rudel’s book.

On the other hand, not everything On the other hand, not everything impresses. Here, too, it’s appropriate impresses. Here, too, it’s appropriate to recall another saying: “Don’t shoot to recall another saying: “Don’t shoot

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the piano player; he’s doing the best he the piano player; he’s doing the best he can.” I’m very well aware that on that can.” I’m very well aware that on that score my book, too, contains score my book, too, contains shortcom-ings, but the most important thing is this ings, but the most important thing is this absence of shoddy work. In the absence of shoddy work. In the Ameri-can author’s book the main emphasis can author’s book the main emphasis is on what we may call the philosophy is on what we may call the philosophy of the Zukertort System, which is also of the Zukertort System, which is also crucial for understanding

crucial for understanding it. Moreoverit. Moreover, I, I think that it can be a wonderful think that it can be a wonderful supple-ment to my book, or (so as not to offend ment to my book, or (so as not to offend anyone) vice versa. But, as nothing can anyone) vice versa. But, as nothing can be ideal, I’m not in

be ideal, I’m not in complete agreementcomplete agreement with

with the the author author here, here, eithereither. . Above all,Above all, as I’ve pointed out, a great deal of space as I’ve pointed out, a great deal of space in the book is taken up by material that in the book is taken up by material that is irrelevant to the Zukertort System. is irrelevant to the Zukertort System. So, for example, what do variations in So, for example, what do variations in the Slav Defense (pp. 130-146) have to the Slav Defense (pp. 130-146) have to do with the Zukertort? I also noticed do with the Zukertort? I also noticed the author’s fondness for statistics. Of the author’s fondness for statistics. Of course, “statistics know everything!” course, “statistics know everything!” But statistics are statistics, and there are But statistics are statistics, and there are very few

very few games, games, and and their their analysis analysis isn’tisn’t exactly packed with detail.

exactly packed with detail.

Right after Rudel’s work, Richard Right after Rudel’s work, Richard Palliser’s book

Palliser’s book Starting Out: d-Pawn At-Starting Out: d-Pawn At-tacks

tacks (Everyman Chess, 2008) came out.(Everyman Chess, 2008) came out. Here we have a book by a professional Here we have a book by a professional chessplayer, and he takes a different chessplayer, and he takes a different ap-proach to presenting the material. It is proach to presenting the material. It is also distinguished by a conscientious also distinguished by a conscientious treatment of the subject and a stress on treatment of the subject and a stress on key points in the development of the key points in the development of the theory of the Zukertort System. theory of the Zukertort System. Pallis-er’s book is dedicated not only to the er’s book is dedicated not only to the

classical Zukertort System, but also to classical Zukertort System, but also to other openings in which the Zukertort other openings in which the Zukertort setup can be used.

setup can be used.

There was also a book by Ken Smith There was also a book by Ken Smith and John Hall,

and John Hall, Winning with the ColleWinning with the Colle System

System, published by Chess Digest. It, published by Chess Digest. It too has a chapter on the Zukertort too has a chapter on the Zukertort Sys-tem. True, the authors of this work call tem. True, the authors of this work call it the Co

it the Colle-Zukertort System. We won’tlle-Zukertort System. We won’t repeat ourselves, as we’ve already repeat ourselves, as we’ve already dis-cussed the matter of the opening’s name. cussed the matter of the opening’s name. Much has happened since it came out, Much has happened since it came out, and also only a small number of pages and also only a small number of pages are dedicated to the Zukertort System. are dedicated to the Zukertort System.

At the

At the end end of this of this book book you’ll find you’ll find aa bibliography

bibliography. . It contains It contains a a list of list of all theall the books

books and and magazines magazines that that the the authorauthor worked

worked through. through. YYes, es, really really “worked“worked through,” and not on the principle that, through,” and not on the principle that, “We read a book so we can say that we’ve “We read a book so we can say that we’ve read it.” And all the points that are read it.” And all the points that are wor-thy of attention have been reflected in thy of attention have been reflected in this book. I didn’t want to make a this book. I didn’t want to make a com-pilation – I either gave the information pilation – I either gave the information as a supplementary note with an as a supplementary note with an indica-tion of authorship, so as not to be a tion of authorship, so as not to be a pla-giarist, or else I included it in the course giarist, or else I included it in the course of the discussion.

of the discussion.

I hope that I’ve persuaded you, dear I hope that I’ve persuaded you, dear reader, to start studying the Zukertort reader, to start studying the Zukertort System. It will help you to

System. It will help you to improvimprove bothe both your

your play play and and your your results. results. Enjoy Enjoy youryour excursions into this opening which, no excursions into this opening which, no doubt, will improve your chess health! doubt, will improve your chess health!

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The Subject of Our Serious Study

1. d4 d5 2.

1. d4 d5 2.CC_f3_f3CC_{f6 3. e3}_{f6 3. e3}

“The idea of this variation is to take “The idea of this variation is to take possession of the e5 square and, after possession of the e5 square and, after occupying it with a knight, to start an occupying it with a knight, to start an attack against the enemy king. Black, attack against the enemy king. Black, meanwhile, tries to take the initiative meanwhile, tries to take the initiative on the other flank and, when he gets the on the other flank and, when he gets the chance, make sound use of his queen’s chance, make sound use of his queen’s bishop.”

bishop.” That, That, in in the the most most generalgeneral terms, is how Alexander Alekhine terms, is how Alexander Alekhine char-acterized the Zukertort System.

acterized the Zukertort System.

3...e6

In our book we’ll only be In our book we’ll only be examin-ing the Zukertort System in its classical ing the Zukertort System in its classical form, i.e. with the move …e7-e6, which form, i.e. with the move …e7-e6, which to a large extent determines the strategy to a large extent determines the strategy of play for the opposing sides. The main of play for the opposing sides. The main weak

weakness of ness of this movthis move, as e, as in the in the FrenchFrench Defense, is that Black has the Defense, is that Black has the “light-squared bishop problem.” The Zukertort squared bishop problem.” The Zukertort System can be used, in principle, against System can be used, in principle, against any opening setup by Black, as it’s any opening setup by Black, as it’s uni- ver

versal. sal. But But it it can’t can’t alwaalways ys be be effectieffective,ve, otherwise opening theory wouldn’t otherwise opening theory wouldn’t ex-ist and there would only be the ist and there would only be the Zuker-tort System. That’s why, as a rule, tort System. That’s why, as a rule, theo-rists relate only those variations where it rists relate only those variations where it work

works s and that and that are typical are typical for it. for it. So, forSo, for instance, after 3...c5 4. b3

instance, after 3...c5 4. b3 CC_{c6 5.}_{c6 5.} EE_b2,_b2,

Black can play 5...

Black can play 5...EE_{g4!?, and the main}_{g4!?, and the main}

ideas for White in the Zukertort System ideas for White in the Zukertort System simply don’t work. John Watson and Eric simply don’t work. John Watson and Eric Schiller, the authors of the book Schiller, the authors of the book HowHow to Succeed in the Queen Pawn Openings to Succeed in the Queen Pawn Openings (T

(Trafford, 2006), arafford, 2006), are of the same opinion.re of the same opinion.

John Cox, in his book

John Cox, in his book Dealing with d4Dealing with d4 Deviations

Deviations (Everyman Chess, 2005), also(Everyman Chess, 2005), also considers the line where the light-squared considers the line where the light-squared bishop

bishop comes comes out tout to f5 o f5 or g4 or g4 independeindependentnt of both the Colle System and the of both the Colle System and the Zuker-tort System. Richard Palliser additionally tort System. Richard Palliser additionally thinks that bringing out the bishop to f5 thinks that bringing out the bishop to f5 or g4 gives Black an “easy game” if White or g4 gives Black an “easy game” if White sticks to the Zukertort System. He, too, sticks to the Zukertort System. He, too, declines to examine this continuation. declines to examine this continuation. And you

And you are amazed are amazed when you read when you read thethe following in the book by Anatoly Karpov following in the book by Anatoly Karpov and Nikolai Kalinichenko: “However, and Nikolai Kalinichenko: “However, the ideas in apparently (to judge by their the ideas in apparently (to judge by their name) different systems are, in essence, name) different systems are, in essence, extraordinarily similar. The only extraordinarily similar. The only differ-ence is that in the Zukertort System the ence is that in the Zukertort System the bishop

bishop temporaritemporarily ly staystays on s on c8, c8, and iand in thn thee Nimzo-Indian, as we see, it can be Nimzo-Indian, as we see, it can be devel-oped to g4. The rest is identical...”

oped to g4. The rest is identical...”

What on

What on eartearth h is is the meaning of the meaning of thethe phrase, “...in the Zukertort System the phrase, “...in the Zukertort System the bish

bishop tempoop temporarilrarily stayy stays on c8”? Despis on c8”? Despitete my long acquaintance with one of the my long acquaintance with one of the au-thors of this bit of wisdom, I have to call thors of this bit of wisdom, I have to call things as I see them. The whole point is things as I see them. The whole point is that after …e7-e6 this poor devil of a that after …e7-e6 this poor devil of a bish-op often can’t find a worthy use behind op often can’t find a worthy use behind the fence of black pawns, and often finds the fence of black pawns, and often finds itself in secondary roles for a long time, itself in secondary roles for a long time, and sometimes remains a mere extra all and sometimes remains a mere extra all the way through to the end of the game. the way through to the end of the game. At th

At the same same time time, once, once it ce it comeomes out s out to g4to g4 it immediately jumps into the middle of it immediately jumps into the middle of the battle, neutralizing White’s threats on the battle, neutralizing White’s threats on the b1-h7 diagonal. And then naturally, the b1-h7 diagonal. And then naturally, the game scenario changes the game scenario changes

fundamen-The Subject of Our Serious Study

(13)

tally, and similar issues arise only in a few tally, and similar issues arise only in a few situations. After 5...

situations. After 5...EE_{g4!? it is difficult for}_{g4!? it is difficult for}

Whit

White te to coo count unt on gon gettietting ng an aan advadvantagntage be byy sticking to the Zukertort System. In sticking to the Zukertort System. In gen-eral, as I said above, it’s very doubtful that eral, as I said above, it’s very doubtful that the variations with Black’s light-squared the variations with Black’s light-squared bis

bishop chop comioming oung out to t to a usa useful eful spot spot (the (the g4g4 or f5 squares) have a connection with the or f5 squares) have a connection with the Zukertort System. That’s why with this Zukertort System. That’s why with this move order for Black, 3...с5, White has move order for Black, 3...с5, White has to be very careful and react in some other to be very careful and react in some other wa

way to y to BlacBlack’s k’s plotplotting.ting.

By way of illustration, Watson and By way of illustration, Watson and Schiller bring in the game Perissinotto Schiller bring in the game Perissinotto C. – Zurla M., Bologna 1991: 3...

C. – Zurla M., Bologna 1991: 3...EE_{g4 4.}_{g4 4.}

b3 e6 5

b3 e6 5..EEd3 c5 (5...d3 c5 (5...CCe4!?) 6.e4!?) 6.EE b2 cxd4 b2 cxd4 7. exd4

7. exd4 CC_{c6 8. 0-0}_{c6 8. 0-0} GG_{c8 (On this theme}_{c8 (On this theme}

there are two other games that once again there are two other games that once again confirm that once Black brings out his confirm that once Black brings out his light-squared bishop to g4 it’s better if light-squared bishop to g4 it’s better if White doesn’t try for

White doesn’t try for the Zukertort Sys-the Zukertort Sys-tem: 8...

tem: 8...EE_{d6 9.}_{d6 9.}CC_{bd2 [9.}_{bd2 [9.}GG_{e1 0-0 10. a3}_{e1 0-0 10. a3} G

G_{c8 11.}_{c8 11.} CC_bd2_bd2 EE_{h5 12. h3}_{h5 12. h3} EE_{f4 13. g4}_{f4 13. g4} E

E_g6_{g6 {with the maneuver …}_{{with the maneuver …}EE_{с8-g4-h5-g6,}_{с8-g4-h5-g6,}

which Savielly Tartakover vividly described which Savielly Tartakover vividly described as “a departure to distant lands,” Black as “a departure to distant lands,” Black neutralizes White’s play on the important neutralizes White’s play on the important b1-h7 diagonal, and furthermore the white b1-h7 diagonal, and furthermore the white pawn rem

pawn remains weakains weak, as it has lost its main, as it has lost its main defender – the d3-bishop}

defender – the d3-bishop} 14. 14. CCf1f1 CCe4e4 15.

15.CC_e5?_e5?CC_{хe5 16. dxe5}_{хe5 16. dxe5}II_{h4 and White}_{h4 and White}

is defenseless, Mendoza A. – Bachmann is defenseless, Mendoza A. – Bachmann A.,

A., AguascAguascalientes alientes 2007] 2007] 9...0-0 9...0-0 10. 10. a3a3

G G_{c8 11.}_{c8 11.} II_e1_e1 EE_{f4 12.}_{f4 12.} CC_e5_e5 CC_{хe5 13.}_{хe5 13.} dxe5 dxe5 CC_{d7 14. f3 [14. g3] 14...}_{d7 14. f3 [14. g3] 14...}EE_{h5 [14...}_{h5 [14...} E E_{f5!? 15.}_{f5!? 15.} EE_{хf5 exf5 16. g3}_{хf5 exf5 16. g3} II_b6+_{b6+ 17.}_17. K K_h1_h1 GG_{хc2] 15.}_{хc2] 15.} GG_f2_f2 II_b6_{b6 16.}_16. CC_f1_f1 EE_g6_g6 17.

17.EE_{хg6 hxg6 18.}_{хg6 hxg6 18.}KK_h1_h1EE_{хe5, and Black}_{хe5, and Black}

won

won a pawn a pawn in Rogmin Rogmans Jans J. – . – KarpatchKarpatchevev A., Ch

A., Charleroi arleroi 2005, a2005, and with nd with it the it the game)game) 9.

9.CC_bd2_{bd2 (accordin}_{(according t}_{g to W}_{o Watson}_{atson and S}_{and Schil-}

chil-ler, Black is already better) 9...

ler, Black is already better) 9...EE_{d6 10.}_{d6 10.} G

G_c1_c1EE_{f4! (exclamation mark by Watson}_{f4! (exclamation mark by Watson}

and Schiller. As we can see from these and Schiller. As we can see from these games, the move is characteristic of this games, the move is characteristic of this variat

variation: ion: now thnow the be bishop ishop can’t can’t be cbe cut ouut outt of the action on the kingside by the move of the action on the kingside by the move

C

C_{f3-e5 [of course, after the knight frees}_{f3-e5 [of course, after the knight frees}

itself from the pin], and it’s also pleasant itself from the pin], and it’s also pleasant for it to work along the c1-h6 diagonal) for it to work along the c1-h6 diagonal) 11.

11.EE_e2_e2CC_{e4!, and Black has the advan-}_{e4!, and Black has the}

advan-tage. tage.

4.

4.EE_{d3 c5}_{d3 c5}

In principle, the theory of the

Zuker-tort System starts out from the

tort System starts out from the

assump-tion that there is a black pawn on c5. In

tion that there is a black pawn on c5. In

90 percent of the cases that’s true, but

there are games in which Black refrains

from …c7-c5 for a while, or never plays

it at all.

it at all. The fact is that, knowing whatThe fact is that, knowing what difficulties await him, Black might go difficulties await him, Black might go for different schemes: either by saving a for different schemes: either by saving a tempo on …c7-c5 or by playing a “Black tempo on …c7-c5 or by playing a “Black Zukertort” (see Part II, Chapter 3). Zukertort” (see Part II, Chapter 3).

5. b3

In contrast to the Colle System, where

White

White playplayss с2-с3, securing a retreat с2-с3, securing a retreat square for the light-squared bishop in the square for the light-squared bishop in the event of...с5-с4, in the Zukertort System event of...с5-с4, in the Zukertort System White

White not not only only anticipaanticipates tes Black’s Black’s threat,threat, but also

but also immediaimmediately prepares a tely prepares a parkingparking spot for the dark-squared bishop. Now spot for the dark-squared bishop. Now we have the starting point

we have the starting point of the of the Zuker- Zuker-tort System. While White’s aims in this tort System. While White’s aims in this position are fairly transparent – put the position are fairly transparent – put the bishop on

bishop on b2, b2, open open the a1-h8 the a1-h8 diagonal,diagonal, and throw all your pieces at your and throw all your pieces at your oppo-nent’s king, with the rocket battery of the nent’s king, with the rocket battery of the two Horwitz bishops firing with terrible two Horwitz bishops firing with terrible

(14)

The Subject of Our Serious Study

force – Black is at a crossroads. Where is force – Black is at a crossroads. Where is his queen’s knight better placed – on c6, his queen’s knight better placed – on c6, or d7? Where is the dark-squared bishop or d7? Where is the dark-squared bishop best

best devedeveloped, loped, on d6on d6, e7, e7, or , or hidden hidden awaawayy in a “cabin” on g7? Or perhaps he should in a “cabin” on g7? Or perhaps he should express his love for an early check like an express his love for an early check like an amateur? Or maybe start hacking away amateur? Or maybe start hacking away at d4 right away, swordsman-style. As we at d4 right away, swordsman-style. As we can see, Black has many roads to choose can see, Black has many roads to choose from. Incidentally, White’s subsequent from. Incidentally, White’s subsequent play depends on this choice too. So it’s play depends on this choice too. So it’s with these questi

with these questions that we’ll begin ourons that we’ll begin our investigation. investigation.



 

 

   

   

    

 

 

 



But before going into the main But before going into the main material I should point out that, after material I should point out that, after 1.1.

d4

d4 CC_{f6 2.}_{f6 2.} CC_{f3 e6 3. e3 c5 4.}_{f3 e6 3. e3 c5 4.} EE_{d3 d5,}_{d3 d5,}

White

White sometimes sometimes provokes provokes Black Black intointo

…

…с5-с4 by immediately playingс5-с4 by immediately playing 5. 0-0:5. 0-0:



 

 

   

   

    

  

 

 



A

A debatable debatable decision. decision. AfterAfter 5...c45...c4

Black not only chases White’s bishop

away from its aggressive post, but also

grabs some space. What does White seek

in return? First,

in return? First, Black must react care-Black must react care-fully to White’s action on the queenside. fully to White’s action on the queenside. Below we’ll see what kind of nuance this Below we’ll see what kind of nuance this is. Secondly, after Black plays …с5-с4 is. Secondly, after Black plays …с5-с4 the white pawn on d4 will solidly cover the white pawn on d4 will solidly cover the center, providing an opportunity for the center, providing an opportunity for its e-pawn brother to demonstrate some its e-pawn brother to demonstrate some activity – е3-е4 – and untying White’s activity – е3-е4 – and untying White’s hands on the kingside. And what does hands on the kingside. And what does Black need with all this? The fact is that Black need with all this? The fact is that seizing space with …с5-с4 enables Black seizing space with …с5-с4 enables Black to create serious counterplay on the to create serious counterplay on the queenside. Therefore

queenside. Therefore

6.

6.EE_{e2 b5}_{e2 b5}

Here’s that very nuance: Slow play

after this move isn’t desirable, as White

will

will get get the the better better pawn pawn structure, structure, forfor

example

example 6...6...CC_c6_{c6 7. b3 cxb3}_{7. b3 cxb3}_{(it is nec-}_{(it is}

nec-essary to trade pawns, as 7...b5 is bad essary to trade pawns, as 7...b5 is bad because of 8. a4)

because of 8. a4) 8. axb3 (White already8. axb3 (White already

has a nice position thanks to his

supe-rior pawn structure) 8...

rior pawn structure) 8...EE_{d6 9.}_{d6 9.} EE_{a3 0-}_a3

0-0 10-0. c4 0 10. c4 GGe8 11.e8 11. EEхd6хd6 IIхd6 12.хd6 12. CCc3c3 (12. c5!? intending (12. c5!? intendingCC_b1-c3-b5-d6)_{b1-c3-b5-d6) 12...}_12... b6 b6 13.13. IIc1 a5?! (13...c1 a5?! (13...EE b7 b7 MM) 14.) 14. CC b5 b5 (Rotstein E. – Hermann W., Cologne (Rotstein E. – Hermann W., Cologne 2000) 14... 2000) 14...II_{d7 15.}_{d7 15.} CC_e5_e5CC_х_х_{e5 16. dxe5}_{e5 16. dxe5} C C_{e4 17. cxd5}_{e4 17. cxd5} EE_{a6 18. dxe6}_{a6 18. dxe6} GG_х_х_{e6 19.}_{e6 19.} G G_d1_d1 MM_{; or 6...}_{; or 6...}CC_bd7_{bd7 7.}_{7. b3}_{b3 b5?!}_{b5?! (now}_{(now it}_it was

was necessary necessary to to agree agree to to 7...cxb3 7...cxb3 8.8. axb3)

axb3) 8. a4 cxb3 9. axb4 bxc2 10.8. a4 cxb3 9. axb4 bxc2 10. II_хc2_хc2

E

E_{b7 11.}_{b7 11.} CC_bd2_bd2EE_{d6 12.}_{d6 12.} EE_a3_a3 EE_{хa3 13.}_{хa3 13.}

G

G_{хa3 0-0 14.}_{хa3 0-0 14.} GG_fa1_fa1 II_b6_b6_15._15. II_a2_a2 GG_fc8_fc8

16.

16. EE_f1_f1_{(weaker is 16.}_{(weaker is 16.} GG_хa7_хa7 GG_{хa7 17.}_{хa7 17.} I

I_хa7_хa7 GG_a8!)_{a8!) 16...}_16...II_{c7 17.}_{c7 17.} CC_b3_b3 CC_e4_e4_,,

and here in Kurajica B. – Palac M., and here in Kurajica B. – Palac M.,

The Zukertort System

A Guide for W

A Guide for White and Black

hite and Black

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM:

THE ZUKERTORT SYSTEM:

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

Contents

Contents

eve-Foreword

Foreword

Blackburne J. – Minckwitz J.

Blackburne J. – Minckwitz J.

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Foreword

Foreword

Foreword

Foreword

The Subject of Our Serious Study

The Subject of Our Serious Study

fundamen-The Subject of Our Serious Study

The Subject of Our Serious Study

The Subject of Our Serious Study

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