Ruy Lopez - Classical Defence

The Classical Defence is called sometimes Cordel Defence. It is characterized by the move 3...Bc5 which is a very old defence move in the Ruy Lopez (spanish opening).

It is not played very often, but this defence can be considered stable as the bishop on c5 is very well placed in the center and pressures the square on f2.

White answers normally with 4.c3 or castles 4.0-0 first and plays 5.c3 later. The usual play is 4.c3 Nf6 5.0-0 0-0 6.d4 Bb6 called the Benelux Variation.

Black should try the unusual 4...Qf6 instead of 4...Nf6 as 4...Qf6 is a move which has been neglected in tournament play and is played rarely, but should not be underestimated at all. I admit, that I am a fan of the Qf6 Variation.

Classical-Defence - Games

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