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Mate in 3: rook to a3 (b3)

c9-23302
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

31. Ra3+ Kb5 32. Nc3+ Kb4 33. Ra4#

Why it works

  • Best move. rook to a3 is exactly what the engine plays (#2).
  • Spot on — knight to c3 (#1).
  • Precise: rook to a4 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Kb5, then Nc3+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #683.

Explore position #683

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