Petrov's Defense: Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation (C42)

The Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation is a variation of the Petrov's Defense, catalogued as ECO C42. The line runs 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nxf7 Kxf7 5. d4, reaching the position shown below after 9 half-moves.

White holds the centre with pawns on d4 and e4. Development is level at one minor pieces each, and Black is up a pawn of material. It is Black to move after five moves.

On the Petrov's Defense generally: A symmetrical defense known for its solidity. Black mirrors White's moves in the opening.

You can play through this variation move by move in your browser — Learn mode walks the line with an explanation at each step, and Drill mode replays it from memory so you find out whether you actually know it. No account is required.

Position characteristics

• Black material edge

Related Petrov's Defense lines

• Classical Attack, Mason-Showalter Variation
• Classical Attack, Staunton Variation
• Classical Attack, Tarrasch Variation
• Cochrane Gambit, Bishop Check Line
• Cozio Attack
• French Attack
• Kaufmann Attack
• Millennium Attack
• Classical Attack
• Classical Attack, Berger Variation
• Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation
• Classical Attack, Chigorin Variation, Browne Attack

See all 30 Petrov's Defense variations →

Frequently asked questions

What are the moves of the Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation?

The Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation goes 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nxf7 Kxf7 5. d4. It is a variation of the Petrov's Defense and is catalogued as ECO C42.

What is the ECO code for the Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation?

The Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation is ECO C42. ECO codes group openings by their move order, so nearby codes cover closely related lines of the Petrov's Defense.

Is the Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation good for White?

Stockfish evaluates the position after 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nxf7 Kxf7 5. d4 at -0.75 at depth 18, which is a small but real edge for Black. Engine evaluation is only a starting point — at club level the practical value of a line is mostly about whether you know its plans better than your opponent does.

What kind of position does the Cochrane Gambit, Center Variation lead to?

White holds the centre with pawns on d4 and e4. Development is level at one minor pieces each, and Black is up a pawn of material. It is Black to move.