Pawn endings · intermediate
Opposition
Use opposition to force the defending king away from the pawn file.
The rule
When the kings face each other, the player who must move gives way.
How to play it
- 1
Count the gap
Identify direct, distant, or diagonal opposition before moving.
- 2
Force a side step
Approach so the defender must leave the pawn file.
- 3
Take the open side
Step toward the side the defender leaves, then advance the pawn.
Study the line, then play it
Step through the example. Then play your moves from the same position.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Move 0 of 5
Starting position
Play through the line one move at a time.
Before you play
Moves to queue
- 1.Shoulder to the open side
- 2.Advance the pawn
- 3.Advance again
Safe when
The forced king move has opened one side and the pawn remains protected.
Stop when
The defender has a choice of king squares. Opposition moves themselves are reply-dependent.
Common mistake
Pushing too early can remove the spare move you need to take opposition.
Win the king-and-pawn ending by controlling the opposition.
Start with a comfortable clock. Reduce it when the position feels familiar. Your record is 0/0.