The Trompowsky Attack, also known as the Trompowsky Opening, is characterized by the move 1. d4 ♞f6 2. ♗g5. It is named after the Brazilian player Octávio Trompowsky, who popularized it in the mid-20th century. The move 2. ♗g5 serves a dual purpose: it develops the bishop and indirectly puts pressure on Black’s f7 square, which is a sensitive area in the early stages of the game.
The chess grandmaster Karel Opočenský (1892–1975) was an adept practitioner of the opening during the 1930s, lending his name to the variation, which is commonly referred to as the Opočenský Opening as well.
The Trompowsky Attack is a refreshing and potent weapon in a chess player’s arsenal, especially when confronted with Indian openings. Its flexibility, rapid development, and ability to lead the game into less explored territories provide ample opportunities for creative and strategic play. Black must exercise caution in this line, as it contains several concealed traps. Let’s examine one of these traps closely.