The Møller (or Moeller) Attack is a popular variation of the Italian Game (Giuoco Piano) that arises after the moves:
1. e4 e5 2. ♘f3 ♞c6 3. ♗c4 ♝c5 4. c3 ♞f6 5. d4 exd4 6. cxd4 ♝b4+ 7. ♘c3 ♞xe4 8. O-O ♝xc3 9. d5!?
It is a sharp and aggressive line that aims to seize control of the center and launch a quick attack against the black king.
The Moeller Attack was named after Jørgen Møller, a Danish chess player who analyzed this line in 1898. However, the opening was known to have been played by earlier chess players, including the likes of Adolf Anderssen and Wilhelm Steinitz.
Pay attention to the following game, as it demonstrates (with the alternative lines) good and bad decisions of both players to explain the fundamental idea of the Møller Attack:
Black can choose a slightly different defense, so it is important for White to know the best strategy for all main lines. The next game shows one of them:
The Moeller Attack is a highly tactical opening that requires precise calculation and accurate play. It is not suitable for players who prefer quiet positional play or who are uncomfortable with sharp and aggressive positions. However, if you love a sharp and double-edged game, it may be just the right weapon to use on your opponents.