Traps, Tricks & Mistakes: Damiano’s Mistake

The so-called Damiano Defence (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 f6) is an irregular opening not played at the top level.

The second black move 2…f6 is a weak move which disagrees with general opening rules, because exposes black king and deprives black king’s knight of its natural f6-square.

White can benefit from it playing an immediately 3.Nxe5, with chances for a quick win or a huge advantage.

As a historical curiosity, Robert Fischer once faced this defence in a simul event. His opponent was Robert Finley McGregor, former chess champion of state Wyoming. Despite Fischer being at that time an experienced master, the game finished in a draw.

Remember do not play weak moves in the opening otherwise your position will be spoilt. Players not always are so lucky as McGregor in this game.