With the plan of ...h6 h5 and ...Bh6(+). Thanks to his bishop pair and dark square control, Black is slightly better.

Black has assessed that the d5-pawn can be safely blocked on d6, after which the pawn itself will restrict several of the white pieces.

Securing future play with ...b7-b5.

6.axb5 axb5 7.Qxb5? Ba6 -+

This time the attempt to grab a pawn by 7.axb5 axb5 8.Nxb5? Qb8! -+

Attacking the weak b2-pawn with a strong initiative.

Provoking the e4-e5 advance in order to install a blockade on d5.

The simplest choice, creating a new weakness.

Preparing ...Re7 with a more efficient defence of the f7-pawn.

Parrying the threat of 9 Qh5. Thanks to his strong knight and the weak pawns on d4 and g3, Black has a more comfortable game.