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Mate in 3: bishop to a3

c9-23948
Puzzle rating: 1760Theme: 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

21. Ba3+ b4 22. Bxb4+ Kd8 23. Qc8#

Why it works

  • Best move. bishop to a3 is exactly what the engine plays (#2).
  • Spot on — bishop to b4 (#1).
  • Precise: queen to c8 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead b4, then Bxb4+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #307.

Explore position #307

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