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Mate in 3: pawn to a8 (a7)

c9-24880
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

34. a8=Q+ Ke7 35. Qxe8+ Kxd6 36. Rc6#

Why it works

  • Best move. pawn to a8 is exactly what the engine plays (#2).
  • Spot on — queen to e8 (#1).
  • Precise: rook to c6 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Ke7, then Qxe8+ and you win the rook.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #543.

Explore position #543

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