Anti-Moscow Gambit

The Anti-Moscow Gambit begins in the Semi-Slav Defense when, after ...h6, White's bishop retreats from g5 to h4 instead of capturing the f6-knight. Black answers with ...dxc4 and White builds a strong center with e4. If Black drives the bishop back with ...g5 and supports the c4-pawn with ...b5, the characteristic position appears.

It is called a gambit because White allows Black to keep the c4-pawn temporarily in return for initiative, the ability to create threats that force the opponent to respond. White's pawns on d4 and e4 can advance, open diagonals, and bring pieces toward Black's king before it reaches safety.

The Anti-Moscow trades a pawn for initiative

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StartBh4dxc4e4g5Bg3b5

Bh4 keeps the bishop and lets White play for a broad center and a rapid attack.

White keeps the bishop and accepts a sharper struggle

Bh4 preserves the tension; Bxf6 would be the independent Moscow Variation choice.

1. Bh4 keeps the bishop and lets White play for a broad center and a rapid attack.
2. Bxf6 is the Moscow alternative: it removes the knight and leads to a less explosive structure.