Englund Gambit: what should White play?

Bf4! — Excellent Choice!

✅ One of 3 top moves — you found a winning strategy!

Why this move is excellent: By playing Bf4, you develop your c1 to an active square before closing the pawn chain with e3. This "London-style" development exerts pressure on the c7 pawn and controls the critical e5 square, preventing Black from easily challenging the center.

Multiple Valid Strategies

Different paths, same destination: While Bf4 is the most natural developing move (found by 31% of players), c4 is a more ambitious strike at the center. Both are objectively equal, but they lead to different types of games: one focused on piece harmony and the other on central tension.

Your Continuation

After Bf4: d5 e3 c6 c4 Bb4+

What Made This Move Good

You correctly saw: That the c1 needs to get outside the pawn chain. Many lower-rated players mistakenly play e3 too early, which traps the Bishop behind its own pawns. By developing the Bishop first, you ensure maximum coordination for your minor pieces.

📚 Takeaway: In positions with multiple good moves, trust your style—whether you prefer the solid development of Bf4 or the central pressure of c4, both are master-level choices!