Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3

-15%
A861.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3
Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

An aggressive defense where Black plays ...f5, fighting for control of the e4 square and preparing kingside operations. The resulting positions are double-edged with chances for both sides.

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Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3: A Complete Guide
Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 - Opening Moves
Summary

The Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 arises after 1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 and falls under ECO code A86. With 254,281 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a specialized opening choice.

History and Notable Players

It arises from the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Mathias Roeder (18 games), Alexander G Beliavsky (12 games), Wolfgang Uhlmann (11 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Vladimir P Malaniuk (12 games), Mihai-Lucian Grunberg (11 games), Marc Santo Roman (9 games).

Statistics

Based on 254,281 Lichess games across all rating levels:

  • White wins: 51.2%
  • Black wins: 43.1%
  • Draws: 5.6%

White holds a moderate edge statistically, though Black has good practical chances.

Main Lines and Variations

After 1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3, the main continuations include:

Each of these lines leads to distinct types of positions and requires its own understanding of the resulting pawn structures and piece placements.

Practice on Chessiverse

The best way to learn the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 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.

Quick Facts

Main Line1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3
FENrnbqkb1r/ppppp1pp/5n2/5p2/2PP4/6P1/PP2PP1P/RNBQKBNR b KQkq - 0 3
DifficultyIntermediate
Style

Aggressor openings create immediate tension and look for direct attacks. These lines are designed to put pressure on the opponent from the very first moves, often leading to unbalanced positions.

254,281games on Lichess
51.2%
5.6%
43.1%
White wins Draws Black wins

Top Players

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid)

Most Popular At2500
SharpnessBalanced

Popularity by Rating

Percentage of all games at each rating bracket that feature this opening.

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid games)

Theory Adherence by Rating

How often players choose the single most popular move at this position. Higher = more predictable play.

Black to move after the opening line

Popularity Over Time

Share of all Lichess blitz + rapid games featuring this opening, by year.

Top Moves by Rating

Black to move after the opening line

RatingMost Popular2nd3rd
400e626.9%g622.3%d516.6%
1000e632.5%g620.3%d518.1%
1200e641.4%g622.2%d512.9%
1400e652.8%g621.8%d57.4%
1600e659.9%g621.7%d65.8%
1800e661.7%g624.3%d65.2%
2000e654.4%g633.1%d66.9%
2200g650.3%e638.3%d69%
2500g657.1%e631.6%d610.4%

Popularity by Time Control

Bullet
<0.01%120K
Blitz
<0.01%220K
Rapid
<0.01%34K
2% more decisive in bullet
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3?

The Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 begins with 1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 and is classified under ECO code A86.

Is the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 good for beginners?

The Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3 can be played at any level. Beginners should focus on understanding the key strategic ideas rather than memorizing long theoretical lines. Our AI bots at various rating levels provide a great way to practice the opening concepts.

What are the main variations of the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3?

The main continuations include: Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 e6 4.Bg2; Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4 Nf6 3.g3 g6 4.Bg2 Bg7 5.Nf3. Each variation leads to distinct types of positions with their own strategic themes.

What are the win rates for the Dutch Defence: 1.d4 f5 2.c4... 3.g3?

Across 254,281 Lichess games, White wins 51.2% of the time, Black wins 43.1%, and 5.6% are drawn. Notable master practitioners on the White side include Mathias Roeder and Alexander G Beliavsky. On the Black side, Vladimir P Malaniuk and Mihai-Lucian Grunberg are among the most frequent practitioners.

Written by

Chessiverse
Chessiverse TeamOpening Guides

Expert chess content backed by opening theory and our database of 600+ AI bots with unique playing styles and opening repertoires.

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