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Chess960 tactic on a7 (a8)

c9-28513
Puzzle rating: 2400Theme: 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

18. Qxa7+ Kc8 19. Qb7+ Kd8 20. Qb8+ Rc8 21. Rxc8#

Why it works

  • Best move. queen to a7 is exactly what the engine plays (#3).
  • Spot on — queen to b7 (#2).
  • Precise: queen to b8 is the top choice (#1).
  • Best move. rook to c8 is exactly what the engine plays (#).
  • The line ends in a forced mate in 4.
  • If instead Kc8, then Qb7+ and you stay on top.

About this position

These pieces come from starting position #275.

Explore position #275

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