English Attack
A modern attacking system where White develops systematically with Be3, f3, Qd2, 0-0-0, and g4. This setup creates a powerful kingside attack against various Sicilian setups while maintaining solid development.
ECO Code
B90, B97-B99
Difficulty
Intermediate
Style
Attacking/Tactical
Key Players
Anand, Carlsen, Caruana
Main Variations
Against Najdorf
The most common setup. White prepares g4 and Qd2 while Black develops naturally with ...Be7 and ...Nbd7.
Against Scheveningen
Similar plan against the solid Scheveningen structure. White aims for 0-0-0 and g4-g5.
Against Dragon
The classical Yugoslav Attack formation. Both sides castle opposite and race to mate.
Against Accelerated Dragon
White maintains the standard plan even when Black avoids ...a6 or ...d6.
Key Strategic Ideas
- The f3-g4-h4 battery: White's main attacking formation on the kingside
- Opposite-side castling: Creates mutual attacks and tactical complications
- The g4-g5 advance: White's typical breakthrough to open lines
- Bishop on e3: Supports the attack while defending key squares
- Knight on d4: Central control and support for the kingside assault
Standard English Attack Plan
White's systematic buildup: develop pieces, castle queenside, launch pawn storm.
Black's Counterplay Options
Black must create queenside threats quickly to counter White's kingside attack.
Critical Knowledge
The g5 breakthrough: When White plays g5, Black must decide between allowing Nxe6 or accepting a weakened kingside after ...Nh5.
Timing is everything: Black's counterplay with ...b5-b4 must come at the right moment - too early and it's ineffective, too late and White's attack wins.
Typical Tactical Patterns
The h4-h5 Break
White often sacrifices the h-pawn with h5 to open lines against Black's king, especially when Black has played ...g6.
Nd5 Breakthrough
The knight jump to d5 can be devastating, especially when supported by the bishop on e3 and queen on d2.
Exchange Sacrifice on f6
Sometimes White sacrifices the exchange with Bxf6 to damage Black's kingside pawn structure.
Why Play the English Attack?
The English Attack offers White a systematic approach against various Sicilian setups. It's easier to learn than the sharp theoretical lines of the Bg5 systems, yet still provides excellent winning chances. The attack is intuitive - develop pieces, castle queenside, and storm the kingside with pawns.
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A powerful and systematic approach to attacking in the Sicilian - perfect for players who want clear plans and strong initiatives.
Back to Sicilian Defense Explore the Najdorf