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Mate in 3: pawn to a8

c9-22467
Puzzle rating: 1630Theme: 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

29. a8=Q+ Kc7 30. Ra7+ Kb6 31. Qb7#

Why it works

  • Great move! pawn to a8 keeps the pressure (#2).
  • Spot on — rook to a7 (#1).
  • Precise: queen to b7 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Kc7, then Ra7+ and you win the pawn.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #274.

Explore position #274

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