Key Concepts of Chess - Pawn Structures Vol.1 and 2
In this two-part course the emphasis will be on typical pawn-structures.
In one of the previous parts of this series on chess history we talked about the Russian Mikhail Botvinnik (1911 - 1995) who, after winning the World Champion title in 1948, lost it three times (1957, 1960 and 1963) to a fellow countryman. In 1960 Botvinnik lost his title to the brilliant and unpredictable Mihail Tal (1936 - 1992).
A year later, however, Botvinnik regained his title in a revenge match against Tal, and in this match the dethroned champion once again showed himself to be a master of preparation, able to analyse and overcome the weaknesses he had shown in the first match. At the same time, he was able to exploit his opponent's weaknesses.
Still, by winning against Botvinnik in 1960, Tal made history by becoming world champion at the age of 24, the youngest ever at that time.
The 'Magician of Riga', as Tal was nicknamed, was a master of tactical play, although in retrospect some of his sacrifices have been questioned. In practice, however, many players found it (too) difficult to respond adequately to his swirling attacking game.
Throughout his life Tal struggled with health problems, but for a time he was one of the world's top players. In 1975 the Russian version of his fantastic book 'The Life and Games of Mihail Tal' was published. The book is unique in that Tal takes on the dual role of interviewer and interviewee, going through his own career.
Tal's unhealthy lifestyle led to his early death at the age of 56. In the following game, which dates from his youth, he uses his beloved Benoni to crush White. In the position shown in the diagram White has just played the moves 22.g4? Rd4+ 23.Kh1. How did Black start a direct attack on the king?
Master Class Vol.10: Mikhail Botvinnik
Our experts show, using the games of Botvinnik, how to employ specific openings successfully, which model strategies are present in specific structures, how to find tactical solutions and rules for how to bring endings to a successful conclusion
This week’s show (for Premium Members only)
