How to crack the Berlin Wall with 5.Re1

In the Berlin Defense (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 Nf6 4.OO Nxe4) White has a tough nut to crack. Black's position is very firm and solid, which is why the variation is often called the "Berlin Wall". The main variation 5.d4 in particular leads to positions in which White has difficulty demonstrating any advantage. On this DVD, Latvian top player Alexei Shirov makes a different suggestion: he recommends 5.Re1, which leads to a symmetrical position, but which Shirov believes is anything but boring. Using numerous grandmaster games, Shirov shows that White can develop pressure and seize the initiative, and that the position is full of subtleties. Other players have also recognized that 5.Re1 is a good way to play against the Berlin Defense. So it is no coincidence that this variation appeared on the board in the World Championship match between Magnus Carlsen and Sergey Karjakin in New York in 2016. This DVD gives you an insight into how top grandmasters and chess professionals study openings and how opening theory in modern tournament chess is constantly evolving. At the same time, you get a first-class weapon against the Berlin Defense, which will help you to be at least one step ahead of your opponent. Suitable for stronger club and tournament players.