Albin Counter-Gambit

Although this opening was originally played by Cavallotti against Salvioli at the Milan tournament of 1881, it takes its name from Adolf Albin, who played it against Emanuel Lasker in New York 1893. (Wikipedia)

In my opinion, this opening is known especially because of famous Lasker trap showing full potential of d4-pawn. The careless move 4.e3? can lead to disaster. After 4...Bb4+ 5.Bd2 dxe3 6.Bxb4?? is a blunder — 6...exf2+ 7.Ke2 fxg1=N+ and Black wins. The Lasker Trap is notable because it is rare to see an underpromotion in practical play.

Though not played frequently at the master level, Russian Grandmaster Alexander Morozevich has recently made much successful use of it and if you are interested more in so-called “Morozevich-Mengarini” variation in details then please visit link which I added.

In our recent league match against Mansfield, Paul Cumbers had to face to Albin Counter-Gambit which was played by Ken Morrison and Paul played in the “Pillsbury’s style” and his opponent resisted just 17 moves.

Nice win Paul!