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Marshall Attack in World Cup 2021
GM Carlsen advanced to Semifinals
31/7/2021 – Fantastic performance by World Champion Magnus Carlsen in winning both games versus GM Bacrot, Etienne (France) in the quarterfinals. I have noticed his deep understanding of the Marshall Attack as demonstrated in his fantastic “queen sacrifice” game.
To chess beginners, let me introduce you to “The Marshall Attack” which is a theoretical contribution of legendary US GM Frank Marshall.
GM Etienne Bacrot used the Anti-Marshall Attack variation 8. a4, unfortunately, it was refuted by GM Carlsen’s flawless execution as shown in his game.
Ruy Lopez – Marshall Attack: This variation teases white to take the 8…d5 pawn in return to quick development at the same time, and aims to attack white’s kingside. It is a gambit but white must think twice to accept it because it’s dangerous and tricky.
CHESS BLOG No. 13 : Date: 31th July 2021
INTRODUCTION: THE MARSHALL ATTACK
Ruy Lopez: Marshall Attack (C89) Chess Opening Classification
Walter Frere vs. GM Frank Marshall
(Event: 1917 New York , USA )
1: e4 e5
2: Nf3 Nc6
3: Bb5 a6 (The Ruy Lopez)
4: Ba4 Nf6
5: 0-0 Be7
6. Re1 b5
7. Bb3 0-0 (Remember this white’s bishop move at b3)
8. c3 d5 (The Marshall Attack)
9. exd5 e4 (In early times, this is popular move).
10. dxc6 exf3 (Very dangerous position for white)
11. d4 fxg2
12. Bf4 Bg4
13. Qd3 Nh5
14 . Bxc7 Qxc7 (black is setting a trap)
15. Qe4 Nf4
16. Qxe7 Qxe7
17. Rxe7 Bf3 (white resigned)
COMPARE IT TO GM CARLSEN's GAME
At move 8, GM Bacrot played 8. a4 (anti-marshall) instead of the normal 8. Re1. But the anti-marshall setup did not materialize because of GM Carlsen's genius deviation.
At move 14... d5, Marshall Attack is activated. Its up to GM Bacrot to accept the poison pawn at e5. Notice the white's bishop at a2 will become a useless piece.
Now, analyze the position why white is in danger here. The way GM Carlsen combines his tactical genius and his exemplary skill to dissect the smallest weakness of opponents position, justifies why he is very difficult to be dethroned as world chess champion.
ENDGAME CORNER - SOLVE THE PROBLEM BELOW
