...c5 Counterattack

1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 b6 4.g3 Bb7 5.Bg2 c5 6.0-0 Be7 7.Nc3 cxd4 8.Nxd4

Black uses an early ...c5 to challenge White's setup before White fully stabilizes the center. The resulting structure is active and piece-oriented.

ECO Code

E15-E19

Difficulty

Intermediate-Advanced

Style

Dynamic Positional

Key Theme

Early central challenge

Main Plans

White: Keep Initiative

Bf4, Rc1, Qb3

White often uses quick piece activity before Black fully coordinates.

Black: Finish Development

...0-0, ...Nc6

Black's goal is to equalize space and activate all pieces with no weaknesses.

Central Trades

d-file tension

Open files and central exchanges become the key source of middlegame play.

Active Queen's Indian Counterplay

The ...c5 method is one of the most practical equalizing ideas for Black.

Back to Queen's Indian Defense Capablanca Variation