Swapping the light-squared bishops in order to gain access to the c4 and c6 squares.

As a result of the bishop exchange, the a4-pawn has become exposed.

Preparing Be3 to eliminate the defender on c5.

Vacating the h4-square for the knight.

This loses a pawn.

More prudent was 7...Bf6 8.Rb4 Rc6 with chances for a draw.

With a sound extra pawn White won.

Seizing the open file and eyeing the weak e5-square. White doesn't fear the exchange on d3 since the knight is Black's most active piece.

Preventing ...Bf5 and preparing Rae1 with a better game, thanks to the control of the e-file and the superior knight.