Sicilian Defence: Scheveningen Variation
Also known as Scheveningen
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 e6
The Scheveningen is Black's classic 'small centre' Sicilian, with modest pawns on d6 and e6. Rather than grabbing space, Black builds a low, springy set-up and waits to strike with ...d5 or ...b5, generating rich counterplay against any White plan.
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What it does
After the standard Open Sicilian moves, Black plants pawns on d6 and e6 instead of pushing either one further. This 'small centre' covers the key squares d5 and e5 and keeps every piece flexible. Black typically follows with ...Be7, ...O-O, ...a6, ...Nc6 or ...Nbd7 and ...Qc7, then expands on the queenside with ...b5 or frees the position with a timely ...d5 break.
When to use it
Choose the Scheveningen when you enjoy flexible, manoeuvring middlegames and are comfortable defending a slightly cramped position in return for long-term counterattack. It rewards understanding of pawn breaks and piece coordination rather than memorised forcing lines. Be ready to meet the sharp Keres Attack (6.g4) and the English Attack (6.Be3 with f3, Qd2 and g4) – many players reach this structure via a Najdorf move order, playing ...a6 first.
Why it works
The small centre is remarkably resilient: with pawns on d6 and e6, Black has no obvious weaknesses to target and every minor piece keeps an active path. The structure is 'elastic' – Black can defend patiently, then uncoil with ...b5 and ...d5 to seize the initiative. Because the set-up adapts to whatever White tries, Black gets a fighting game with chances to outplay an opponent over the long run.
Key ideas
- Build the d6/e6 'small centre' for maximum flexibility
- Aim for the freeing break ...d5 at the right moment
- Expand on the queenside with ...a6 and ...b5
- Place the queen on c7 and rooks on c8/e8 for pressure
- Know how to meet the Keres Attack (6.g4) and English Attack
- Stay solid – Black is cramped but has no weaknesses
Watch out
The Keres Attack, 6.g4, is the critical try: White grabs kingside space at once and can attack fiercely if Black drifts. A common reply is 6...h6 to slow the g-pawn, or to reach this structure only after ...a6 (the Najdorf move order), which blunts 6.g4. Underestimating White's English Attack (Be3, f3, Qd2, g4, O-O-O) can also invite a swift mating attack.