The purpose of 5...a6 — stopping Nb5, preparing b5

Sicilian Najdorf · Concept

Key Ideas
  • 5...a6 stops Nb5-d6 fork
  • Prepares ...b5 expansion on the queenside
  • Flexible: can play ...e5, ...e6, or ...g6 systems

The Najdorf is named after Miguel Najdorf. The move 5...a6 is multi-purpose: it prevents Nb5, prepares ...b5, and keeps options open.

Critical Moves
  • 5...a6 — The defining move
  • 6...e5 — Classical Najdorf
  • 6...e6 — Scheveningen
Common Mistakes
  • Playing ...e5 too early before development
  • Ignoring White's Bg5 pin