Dutch Defence

ECO A80–A99 · Level: Intermediate · Also known as: Dutch, Stonewall, Leningrad

The Dutch Defence (1.d4 f5) controls e4 with the f-pawn and prepares a kingside attack. It is an unbalanced, fighting defence.

Position at the end of the main line

Main line

1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Bg2 Be7 5.Nf3 O-O 6.O-O

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History

Associated with the 18th-century Dutch author Elias Stein, it was played occasionally by Alekhine and Botvinnik. The Stonewall and Leningrad are its best-known forms.

White's plan

  • g3-Bg2 pressure along the long diagonal against e4 and Black's loosened king.
  • Open the centre with e4 and use Black's weak e6 square.

Black's plan

  • In the Stonewall, ...d5, ...e6, ...c6 form a rock-solid structure with a knight on e4.
  • In the Leningrad, ...g6 and ...Bg7 give King's Indian-style dynamics.

Key variations

Traps you should know

The h5 pawn and mate on g6 · checkmate

1.d4 f5 2.Bg5 h6 3.Bh4 g5 4.Bg3 f4 5.e3 h5 6.Bd3 Rh6 7.Qxh5+ Rxh5 8.Bg6#

Chasing the bishop with pawns loosens Black's king. After 6...Rh6??, 7.Qxh5+! Rxh5 8.Bg6 is mate because f7 is unguarded.

Position at the end of the trap
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Who should play it?

For Black players who play for a win against 1.d4 and enjoy unbalanced positions.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Dutch sound?

It is slightly risky because it weakens the kingside, but played well it offers strong counter-chances.

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Related openings

  • King's Indian Defence — The King's Indian lets White build a big centre first, then counter-attacks with the g7 bishop and the ...e5 and ...f5 pawn breaks.
  • London System — The London System sets up the same solid structure (d4, Bf4, e3, c3, Nf3, Nbd2) almost regardless of Black's moves.
  • English Opening — The English Opening (1.c4) controls the centre from the flank, allowing reversed-Sicilian structures and many transpositions.

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