We already analyzed Tal Attack (1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 ♝f5 4. h4) in the previous article. Another interesting line in the Advance Variation of the Caro-Kann Defense is the Van der Wiel Attack, also known as the Bayonet Attack (why?). It is named after John van der Wiel, a Dutch grandmaster.
1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 ♝f5 4. ♘c3 e6 5. g4
White’s move 4. ♘c3 is a natural developing move, preparing to castle and coordinating pieces. However, the real star of this sequence is 5. g4, a move designed to undermine Black’s bishop on f5 and exploit its lack of retreat squares.
Let’s analyze two sample games where White aims to exploit the weaknesses around Black’s king while gaining space and piece activity. Black, on the other hand, must navigate the complexities, maintain solid piece development, and seize any counterplay opportunities that arise.
So, that was a casual game from our database. How about a duel between two chess legends?