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Mate in 3: pawn to a6 (b5)

c9-12239
Puzzle rating: 1980Theme: Chess960 twist: use the unusual starting setup of the pieces.
a8b7c6d5e4f3g2h1
White to move — find the best continuation

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The tactical motive

Chess960 twist: use the unusual starting setup of the pieces.

White to move — find the best continuation

Solution & explanation

Main line

15. bxa6+ Kb6 16. Bd4+ Ka5 17. Qb5#

Why it works

  • Great move! pawn to a6 keeps the pressure (#2).
  • Well found: bishop to d4 (#1).
  • Precise: queen to b5 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Kb6, then Bd4+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #704.

Explore position #704

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