The Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... Nb8 arises after 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 9.h3 Nb8 and falls under ECO code C94. With 134,873 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a specialized opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... 9.h3. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Mikhail Tal (29 games), Vlastimil Jansa (25 games), Milan Matulovic (23 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Boris V Spassky (62 games), Krishnan Sasikiran (49 games), Svetozar Gligoric (44 games).
Statistics
Based on 134,873 Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 47.3%
- Black wins: 45.9%
- Draws: 6.8%
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 0-0 8.c3 d6 9.h3 Nb8, 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 Ruy Lopez, Closed Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... Nb8 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.
