The Sicilian Defence: 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3... 7.Qd2 arises after 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 Nc6 6.Bg5 Bd7 7.Qd2 and falls under ECO code B61. With 39,471 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a specialized opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Sicilian Defence: 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3... 6.Bg5. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Ivan Radulov (8 games), Milan Matulovic (7 games), Dragoljub Janosevic (7 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Ann Matnadze Bujiashvili (28 games), Istvan Csom (23 games), Karl Robatsch (23 games).
Statistics
Based on 39,471 Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 47.3%
- Black wins: 45.3%
- Draws: 7.3%
The statistics show a roughly balanced opening where both sides have equal chances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the opponent's kingside attack: In many Sicilian lines, White will castle queenside and push pawns toward your king. If you don't create counterplay on the queenside or in the center, White's attack will arrive first.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Sicilian Defence: 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3... 7.Qd2 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.
