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Mate in 3: queen to c8 (c5)

c9-24835
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

21. Qc8+ Qf8 22. Be6+ Kxh8 23. Qxf8#

Why it works

  • Best move. queen to c8 is exactly what the engine plays (#2).
  • Spot on — bishop to e6 (#1).
  • Precise: queen to f8 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Qf8, then Be6+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #787.

Explore position #787

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