Ruy Lopez Cozio Defense (games 104-109)
Main idea: after 3...Nge7, play Nc3 and d4 to build a strong centre while Black wastes time with knight manoeuvres and fianchetto plans.
Opening moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nge7. Black protects the c6 knight and prepares a kingside fianchetto, but gives White time to seize the centre.
White answers with rapid development: play Nc3 and d4 to grab space, then use piece activity to punish Black's slow setup. This page follows the 1.e4 repertoire PGN and explains the Cozio lines in simple language.
Main idea: after 3...Nge7, play Nc3 and d4 to build a strong centre while Black wastes time with knight manoeuvres and fianchetto plans.