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Chad Lieberman

This week's article will address methods by which you can play against an opponent's strong pawn center. There are many openings that lead to a strong pawn center for one side (usually the white pieces), but there is little discussion of how to play against one.

There are two solutions to this dilemma. First, you could play around the center. Second, you could attempt to destroy the center.

Sometimes a strong pawn center may mean weak wings. If this is the case in your game, you may find that destroying the pawn center would be a waste of time and resources. Instead, you could simply play on the wings and attack the opponent from behind the center.

If you must rid the board of your opponent's central grasp, I recommend the use of a pawn as a battering ram. When used properly, just one pawn with proper piece support can swing the initiative to your side.

Please keep these two strategies in mind when you find your position cramped by an opponent's pawn center. Good luck!

White to mate in two moves.
Link to solution at the bottom.