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Mate in 3: rook to a7 (b7·2)

c9-27360
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

19. Rxa7+ Kxa7 20. Qxa5+ Kb8 21. Qa8#

Why it works

  • Best move. rook to a7 is exactly what the engine plays (#2).
  • Well found: queen to a5 (#1).
  • Precise: queen to a8 is the top choice (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
  • If instead Kxa7, then Qxa5+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #847.

Explore position #847

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