1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5
The Trompowsky Attack (1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5) sidesteps mainstream theory by immediately challenging Black's knight. White is ready to trade the dark-squared bishop for the f6-knight, often doubling Black's pawns and steering the game into original, less-charted positions.
Position after 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5
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Named after Brazilian champion Octávio Trompowsky, the opening gained a cult following through the games of Julian Hodgson and Antoaneta Stefanova, who showed its venom at grandmaster level.
Use opening principles to explain development, center control, and king safety in this line. The beginner repertoire guide helps you choose which positions to study next.