The Smith-Morra Gambit is a chess opening that begins with the moves 1. e4 c5 2. d4 cxd4 3. c3. It is named after Pierre Morra and Ken Smith, who popularized it in the mid-20th century.
The gambit is characterized by White sacrificing a pawn on move three in exchange for rapid development and an open position. The idea behind the gambit is to seize control of the center and create attacking chances against Black’s king.
The Smith-Morra Gambit is not considered one of the strongest openings for White, but it can be a surprise weapon against unprepared opponents. Black has several options to decline the gambit or accept it, and the resulting positions can be sharp and tactical.
Despite the not-the-strongest-opening reputation, the gambit wasn’t definitely refuted. I already mentioned it already in the article about the opening trap.
Accepted Gambit
Note: Playing the line similar to the Danish Gambit isn’t recommended in this variant: