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Winning blow: queen to d4 (a4·4)

c9-25968
Puzzle rating: 1430Theme: 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

27. Qxd4 Bxd4 28. Rb8+ Ke7 29. Nxc6+ Kf7 30. Nxd4

Why it works

  • Great move! queen to d4 keeps the pressure (+6.4).
  • Spot on — rook to b8 (+6.3).
  • Strong! knight to c6 is the sharp choice (+6.5).
  • Best move. knight to d4 is exactly what the engine plays (+7.0).
  • You win decisive material (+7.0).
  • If instead Bxd4, then Rb8+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #174.

Explore position #174

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