C53

Italian Game: Classical Variation, Mestel Variation

1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Qe7 5. d4 Bb6 6. Bg5

The Italian Game: Classical Variation, Mestel Variation is a chess opening classified under ECO code C53. It is reached after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Bc5 4. c3 Qe7 5. d4 Bb6 6. Bg5.

It belongs to the Italian Game family — one of many ways the line can branch. Understanding the parent system’s plans is the fastest way to play this variation well.

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