The Catalan Opening: 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4... Be7 arises after 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.g3 d5 4.Bg2 dxc4 5.Nf3 Be7 and falls under ECO code E05. With 123,864 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a specialized opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Catalan Opening: 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4... 5.Nf3. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Helmut Reefschlaeger (3 games), Linus Olsson (3 games), Igor Stohl (3 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Pavel Blatny (9 games), Sumiya Bilguun (4 games), Olivier Moor (3 games).
Statistics
Based on 123,548 Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 54.6%
- Black wins: 39.4%
- Draws: 6%
The statistics show a roughly balanced opening where both sides have equal chances.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Catalan Opening: 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4... Be7 is through practice. On Chessiverse, you can play chess against computer opponents from any opening or custom position. Our AI bots range from beginner to grandmaster level, each with unique playing styles — from aggressive attackers to solid defenders. Choose a bot that matches your rating and work your way up as you master the opening's key ideas.
