The Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... 7.Bb3 arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 and falls under ECO code C88. With 2.4 million Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a well-established opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Viswanathan Anand (147 games), Vlastimil Jansa (139 games), Alexei Shirov (131 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Svetozar Gligoric (216 games), Alexander G Beliavsky (180 games), Oleg M Romanishin (175 games).
Statistics
Based on 2.4 million Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 47.3%
- Black wins: 47%
- Draws: 5.7%
The statistics show a roughly balanced opening where both sides have equal chances.
Main Lines and Variations
After 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3, the main continuations include:
- Ruy Lopez, Marshall Attack
- Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 Be7 6.Re1 b5 7.Bb3 0-0 8.c3 d6
- Ruy Lopez: Chigorin Defense
- Ruy Lopez: Chigorin Defense, Main Line
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 Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... 7.Bb3 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.
