Chess opening · ECO B02
Alekhine Defense
The Alekhine Defense starts 1. e4 Nf6. It ranks #37 of the 174 openings on this site by how often rated players on Lichess reach it.
Move by move
- 1. e4White pushes the e-pawn two squares to e4, staking a claim in the center.
- 1... Nf6Black develops the kingside knight to f6.
What players choose next, by rating
The three most common White moves from this position in rated Lichess games, grouped by the rating of the player making the move. Among players rated under 1200, the most popular next move is Nc3; among players rated 2000 and up, it is e5.
| Rating | Most common | Second | Third |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 1200 | Nc3 39% | e5 21% | d3 16% |
| 1200–1399 | Nc3 37% | e5 35% | d3 11% |
| 1400–1599 | e5 47% | Nc3 33% | d3 10% |
| 1600–1799 | e5 57% | Nc3 30% | d3 6% |
| 1800–1999 | e5 60% | Nc3 31% | d3 6% |
| 2000 and up | e5 65% | Nc3 30% | d3 4% |
Related openings
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