Benko Gambit

The Benko Gambit (ECO code A57) is a chess opening that begins with 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5. Black sacrifices a pawn on the queenside for long-term pressure on the a- and b-files. After 4.cxb5 a6, Black gets tremendous activity. The compensation lasts deep into the endgame.

The main line of the Benko Gambit is 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5. It is classified under ECO code A57 and falls in the Closed Game family of chess openings. From this starting position, both sides have well-established plans — White typically continues with natural developing moves while Black follows the response patterns described above.

The Benko Gambit is a reasonable choice for beginners who want exposure to closed game positions. The main line (1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c5 3. d5 b5) is easy to remember, and the resulting middlegame patterns are well-documented. Focus on understanding the typical pawn structure rather than memorizing 15 moves of theory — engine review of your own games at chess.rodeo is more useful than theory study at the club level.

The Benko Gambit is classified as ECO code A57. ECO (Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings) is the standard five-letter classification system developed by Chess Informant in the 1970s — A-codes cover flank openings, B-codes 1.e4 replies that aren't 1...e5, C-codes 1.e4 e5 openings, D-codes 1.d4 d5 systems, and E-codes Indian Defenses. You can browse all openings by ECO code in our free opening database.

Use chess.rodeo for full Stockfish analysis of your Benko Gambit games — no account required, no daily cap, no paywall. Paste your PGN and get instant engine evaluation on every move, including the opening phase. For move-by-move replay without engine output, use our free PGN viewer. Both are completely free with no signup.