The Schliemann Defence: Move by Move

Openings expert Junior Tay examines the Schliemann Defence and its many variations. He provides repertoire options for Black, answers all the key questions and tells you all you need to know about successfully playing the Schliemann.

The Schliemann is an opening variation of the Ruy Lopez. Here Black immediately challenges the central white e-pawn with a flank thrust, seeking to demolish it instantly. By eschewing development in favour of such blatant aggression, it is not surprising that Black frequently finds himself the e5-pawn down, especially when he has to complete development himself in the process. The opening of the f-file and, often, the attainment of the bishop pair does, however, afford him chances to attack and complicate. Black’s king is usually the more exposed one, though the tactical nature of the position provides him with a truckload of tactics to get by, especially at lower levels.