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In volume 10 of his "Understanding Middlegame Strategies" series, Ivan Sokolov focuses on the Caro-Kann Advance Variation, starting from the position after 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 Bf5. In the introduction, the Dutch grandmaster emphasises that the course primarily offers inspiration for White players, though Caro-Kann players on the Black side can also benefit.
Through 17 model games, Sokolov presents various promising setups for White, with a total runtime of over 7 hours. This course suits modern chess, where flexibility and a wide-ranging arsenal are key factors for success!
Sokolov repeatedly points out that the course is not an opening guide. While he demonstrates the theoretical foundations of variations and highlights critical positions worth deeper investigation, the experienced grandmaster and coach does not delve into theoretical depth like a repertoire course would.
Particular attention is paid to the sharp line 4.Nc3 e6 5.g4 Bg6 6.Nge2
In the 6 model games covering this line, players like Kasparov, Anand and Shirov appear on the White side, showing that it was extensively tested at the highest level in an earlier era. Sokolov, however, believes this variation may soon experience a resurgence in popularity at top-level chess. It can be well-prepared with modern engines, is extremely dangerous for Black at the board, and is excellent for attacking players: "The better calculator wins".
Sokolov also offers options for positional players, such as the rare 4.Be3 or 4.Nd2 e6 5.Nb3, demonstrated through a game by Anish Giri. White's aim is to hinder the thematic ...c6-c5 – or at least allow it only at the cost of the bishop pair!
The currently hotly discussed 4.h4 and, after 4...h5, both 5.Bd3 and 5.c4 are presented, as well as the immediate 4.c4. Some experts consider this less dangerous than including 4.h4 h5, but the impressive Carlsen v. Fedoseev game still illustrates ideas for White.
The focus on the middlegame has the advantage of providing the viewer with a wealth of typical plans and motifs.
(Position from Shirov v. Eljanov)
Against an early ...c5, the opening with c2-c4 often puts Black under pressure. Consequently, Shirov gained the initiative with 8.c4! However, the tactical motifs with which the attacking artist ignited the board from move 14 onwards are even more impressive.
(Position from Kasparov v. Navara)
9.f5! exf5 10.g5. This is still objectively fine for Black, but the old master outplayed his opponent instructively. Eleven moves later, the only remaining minor pieces were a white dream knight on f4 and, in Sokolov's words, the "big pawn on g6".
Many motifs for Black are also covered in the course. Here, White played for a bishop gain but was in trouble after 13...f5! 14.dxe4 fxe4. For the piece, Black gained strong central pawns and counterplay against the exposed White king.
A classic repertoire book usually focuses on concrete, narrow recommendations. But what other options exist in a variation? Why isn't this natural-looking move good here? What motifs and dangers threaten me if I forget the lines from the file and play imprecisely?
What this points to can be described as general knowledge about an opening. Caro-Kann players will gain a lot of this from the course! Additionally, there is a dose of chess history. For instance, Sokolov analyses the decisive final round of the 2004 World Championship match between Kramnik and Leko in detail while also showcasing other classics, such as a duel between Tal and Botvinnik.
In his new middlegame course on the Caro-Kann Advance Variation, GM Ivan Sokolov offers players inspiration from the white side on how to fight for an advantage after 3.e5 Bf5. Through instructive model games, he highlights a number of promising ideas.
The course is also worthwhile for Caro-Kann players on the black side. Compared to a repertoire book, it broadens horizons and delivers plenty of valuable knowledge. And of course, when the lecture focuses on "your" opening, you can simply sit back and enjoy the games! Some might have wished for a higher proportion of games from current top GMs in the selection – but this does not detract from the quality of Sokolov's choices.
Understanding Middlegame Strategies Vol.10 - Caro-Kann Advance Variation
Instead of focusing on a rigid repertoire, the course presents key games, important strategic ideas, and opening knowledge to equip you with the essential tools to outmanoeuvre your opponents.
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