How to beat the Slav Defense

Black defends d5 with ...c6 and keeps the c8 bishop free. Solid and popular from club level to the world elite.

Three plans that work

1. Take on d5 if you want a clear game

The Exchange Slav (cxd5 cxd5) is symmetrical, but the side that's better prepared and gets to the c-file first keeps a small, lasting edge.

2. Play e3 and Qb3 against early ...Bf5

Hitting b7 while Black's bishop is out early is a classic and practical idea.

3. Against ...dxc4, regain the pawn with a4 and e3

Don't chase it with risky moves; the pawn comes back naturally and you get central control.

A line to play

1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.e3 Bf5 5.Nc3 e6 6.Nh4

The pitfall

Grabbing on b7 can be a trap if you're under-developed. Count tempi first.

What the data says

In 60 recent games of the top 100 titled Lichess players featuring the Slav Defense, they scored 67% on average. Players who use it most: IM hibyehwa (64%), IM DiaryTraining (73%), IM DiaryTraining (67%), FM chessmem (62%), GM Fabsid (64%), GM Vladimirovich9000 (67%).

Prepare against the actual player

Averages only go so far. A Slav Defense player has their own pet variations and weak spots. Before your next game, get a free fingerprint of your opponent, or get the full prep report ($5): every variation they play, where they score worst, and a game plan for both colours.