Ragozin Defense Opening Theory

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The Queen’s Gambit Declined is the most popular way to fight the attempt by white to give up (gambit) his c4 pawn. It has been played by top masters since the 19th century, and it will never lose popularity due to its solidity, flexibility, and the amount of different options it gives to black. In this video I have covered the Ragozin Defense (also known as the Ragozin Variation), a very tricky attempt by black to disrupt white’s normal development and attacking plans.

The Ragozin is an opening very similar to the Nimzo-Indian Defense. They are both characterized by the development of the f8 bishop to b4, pinning the c3 knight and indirectly putting pressure on e4.
The Ragozin Defense is, therefore, a great way for Nimzo players to fight the anti-Nimzo variations which start after Nf3 (white avoids Nc3 to prevent the Nimzo).

The positions black gets from the Ragozin are very active. He has a lead in development and his only strategic problem is the c8 bishop, which has to be liberated with either c5 or e5.

A very good, active defense for black. Full of attacking opportunities. It’s a fighting attempt, and it doesn’t simply go for equality. A great addition to your repertoire if you already play the Nimzo!

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