Latvian Gambit Accepted: Main Line: what to play after d6?

In the Latvian Gambit Accepted: Main Line, White faces a critical decision regarding the placement of the e5. The most effective continuation according to engine analysis and historical practice is Nc4, which maintains a +1.45 evaluation and has been played in 66.9% of the 459,076 recorded games. This retreat secures the knight while preparing to challenge Black's central tension and the exposed position of the f6.

The strategic priority of Nc4

The move Nc4 is the theoretical cornerstone of this position, appearing in 317,000 games. By moving the knight to the c4 square, White avoids the immediate threat from the d6 while preparing to contest the center after Black likely plays fxe4. The main line continues Nc4 fxe4 Nc3 Qg6 f3 Nc6, where White utilizes the f-pawn to break open the center and exploit Black's lack of development.

Alternatives and the Nd3 retreat

While less common than the main line, Nd3 remains a viable alternative, played in 5.8% of games with a solid +1.33 evaluation. This variation often leads to a more maneuvering struggle, typically following the sequence Nd3 fxe4 Nf4 Qf7 Be2 Nf6. By placing the knight on f4, White exerts pressure on the f7 and prepares for kingside development, though it is considered slightly less ambitious than the c4 retreat.

Risks of the Nf3 retreat and tactical errors

Choosing to return the knight to its original square with Nf3 is a frequent choice, occurring in 22.3% of games, but it yields a neutral -0.05 evaluation. This allows Black to equalize comfortably after Nf3 fxe4 Qe2 d5 c4 Bb4+. More significant errors include Bb5+ and Nc3, which carry evaluations of -1.79 and -1.91 respectively. These moves fail to address the vulnerability of the e5 effectively, allowing Black to seize the initiative through central pawn captures or tactical simplifications.