Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...c5/2. Nf3/2...d6/3. d4

= Open Sicilian = The aggressive advance of White's d-pawn forms a classical centre (pawns on e4 and d4), a strong formation which threatens to gain a large space advantage by a subsequent d5 or e5. Black is therefore compelled to break up White's centre.

In the Sicilian, this is easily achieved with the exchange /3...cxd4/, the control of d4 being the major reason the c-pawn was moved to c5 originally. With this natural move Black acquires a majority of central pawns and half-opens the c-file.

Their other means of attacking the centre pawns is with /3...Nf6/, in an attempt to avoid the Maróczy Bind by tempting the b1 knight out, but White can simply take the c-pawn with quicker development.

/3...Nc6/ invites either d5 or dxc5 with a strong initiative.

Theory table
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'''1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4'''