Game of the Week 2/52

If you’re here to sharpen your skills and really work on your chess, try solving the next 5 positions before diving into the analysis. But if you’re just here for fun and want to enjoy the game, feel free to scroll straight to the full breakdown. Have fun!

WHITE TO MOVE. Black’s last move was the energetic b4, with an idea that seems straightforward at first glance: Black wants to open the position for his pieces. But what happens if White responds with c4? Try to calculate the variations as deeply as possible.
BLACK TO MOVE. Obviously, Black has an excellent position. How can he improve it even further? Which piece should he focus on?
WHITE TO MOVE. Find the best move.
BLACK TO MOVE. Think about two moves: A) the obvious one Qxd2 B) tricky one g6 - calculate deep as possible in both of these lines. What would you play in the game?
BLACK TO MOVE. Black in the game choose the move Qb4. What ́s wrong with this move. What would you play instead?

The game was played in round 12 of German Bundesliga 2025/26, 11. 1. 2026
between GM Van Foreest (2703) and GM Mendonca (2615)

Thanks so much for following along! I hope you enjoyed the game and the key lessons it offers. If you have an idea for Game of the Week feel free to send me a message on Lichess. I’d love to hear your suggestions!