The Two Knights Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... h6 arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 Nf6 4.Ng5 d5 5.exd5 Na5 6.Bb5+ c6 7.dxc6 bxc6 8.Be2 h6 and falls under ECO code C59. With 528,087 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a specialized opening choice.
History and Notable Players
It arises from the Two Knights Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... Na5. Among the most prolific practitioners on the White side are Boris Taborov (7 games), Graham D Lee (7 games), Georgy Timoshenko (7 games). On the Black side, notable exponents include Efim Geller (8 games), Yuri Kruppa (7 games), Mikhail Chigorin (6 games).
Statistics
Based on 528,087 Lichess games across all rating levels:
- White wins: 45.1%
- Black wins: 50.8%
- Draws: 4.2%
Interestingly, Black scores well in this opening, suggesting it offers strong counterplay.
Practice on Chessiverse
The best way to learn the Two Knights Defence: 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3... h6 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.
