Dutch Defense

The Dutch Defense is characterized by the moves 1. d4 f5,  with several continuing variations.  The  Dutch Defense belongs to the Closed Games Openings.  In general, this opening leads to quieter and longer struggles. Many modern Grandmasters include it in their repertoire and former World Champions Mikhail Botvinnik and  Max Euwe played it.

The following game is also known as the "Najdorf Immortal Game", one of the finest games ever played by Miguel Najdorf, a Polish chess grandmaster.

GLUCKSBERG vs. MIGUEL NAJDORF
Warsaw, 1929
Dutch Defense, Queen's Knight Variation

1. d4, f5
2. c4, Nf6
3. Nc3, e6
4. Nf3, d5
5. e3, c6
6. Bd3, Bd6
7. 0-0, 0-0
8. Ne2, Nbd7
9. Ng5, Bxh2!!

 10. Kh1 ....

If 10. Kxh2, then 10....Ng4+ and 11....Qxg5 and Black has the advantage.

10. .... Ng4
11. f4, Qe8!

Black seeks a new attacking position.

12. g3, Qh5!!
13. Kg2, Bg1

If 13....Bxg3, then 14. Rh1 and White parries the threat.

14. Nxg1 ....

If 14....Rxg1, then 15. Qh2+ and then 16. Qf2 mate.

14. .... Qh2+
15. Kf3, e5!!
16. dxe5, Ndxe5+
17. fxe5, Nxe5+
18. Kf4, Ng6+
19. Kf3, f4!!
20. exf4, Bg4+
21. Kxg4 ....

White has no choice but to capture the Bishop, otherwise his Queen is lost.

21. .... Ne5+

A check out of the blue.  Now White must take the Knight.

22. fxe5, h5 mate.

A beauty!  A pawn mate added brilliance to a magnificent mating combination.

To view the game in PGN forrmat, you may visit Glucksberg vs. Najdorf.