Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...d5/2. exd5/2...Nf6/3. c4

= 3. c4 =

This move defends the d-pawn and essentially forces black to play a gambit. Black has two main options. The first is 3...c6, and now white should not capture the pawn, but instead play 4. d4 (or 4. Nc3 which will transpose), and after 4...cxd5 the position has transposed into the Caro-Kann Panov-Botvinnik Attack. Because this line used to be considered good for white, 3. c4 used to be the overwhelming choice of strong players. There are three reasons this is no longer the case. First, the Panov-Botvinnik is no longer considered good for white. Second, 3. d4 is now considered a serious try at an advantage for white. Third, the rise of 3...e6, the so-called Icelandic Gambit or Palme Gambit. The theoretical standing of this gambit is debated, but it scored quite well against unprepared opponents when it first rose to prominence, and continues to score surprisingly well today.

Theory table

 * 1. e4 d5 2. exd6 Nf6 3. c4

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