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Winning blow: king to b2 (b3)

c9-25588
Puzzle rating: 1390Theme: 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

36. Kb2 Qa2+ 37. Kc1 Re6 38. b7+ Kxc7 39. bxa8=R

Why it works

  • Great move! king to b2 keeps the pressure (+3.6).
  • king to c1 develops smoothly.
  • Precise: pawn to b7 is the top choice (+4.5).
  • Best move. pawn to a8 is exactly what the engine plays (+4.7).
  • You win a piece — the rook.
  • If instead Qa2+, then Kc1 and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #929.

Explore position #929

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