Italian Game, Two Knights Defense, Lolli Attack

The Lolli Attack arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 Nf6 4.Ng5 d5 5.exd5 Nxd5 6.d4. White’s knight on g5 and bishop on c4 pressure f7, a pawn initially protected only by the king. Black has recaptured on d5 with the knight, and White answers by opening the center rather than taking on f7 immediately.

The move 6.d4 serves several purposes. It attacks the e5-pawn, opens the c1-bishop’s diagonal toward g5, and therefore adds protection to the knight on g5. It also invites pawn exchanges that may open files and diagonals against a black king that has not castled. A central break is a pawn advance intended to challenge or exchange the pawns in the center.

The line requires calculation because Black may capture on d4, give checks, or return material to complete development. White cannot assume that pressure on f7 creates an automatic attack. The practical value comes from bringing the queen, rooks, and c1-bishop into play without allowing the g5-knight to become trapped.

Difference from the Fried Liver Attack

In the Fried Liver Attack, White plays 6.Nxf7 and sacrifices the knight immediately. In the Lolli, White plays 6.d4, keeps the knight for the moment, and opens more pieces before deciding whether a sacrifice on f7 is justified.