Greco Defence

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This article uses algebraic notation to describe chess moves.

The Greco Defence or McConnell Defense,named after Gioachino Greco, is a chess opening that begins with the moves

1. e4 e5

2. Nf3 Qf6

It is categorised by ECO under code C40.

Of the several plausible ways that Black has to defend the e-pawn, 2...Qf6 is considered one of the weaker choices since the queen is developed prematurely and becomes a target for attack. Also, the Black king's knight is deprived of its most natural square. There is however no obvious refutation, White's advantage is mainly being able to develop more smoothly. Although it is a favorite opening among novice players, it has also been used by people who according to Gary Lane "should know better".

George Koltanowski faced this opening in a blindfold simultaneous exhibition in 1960, where he played 3.Nc3 and proceeded to win in seven moves.

Greco himself illustrated the following amusing line against this defense in 1620:

1. e4 e5
2. Nf3 Qf6?!
3. Bc4 Qg6
4. 0-0 Qxe4
5. Bxf7+ Ke7 ( 5... Kxf7?? 6. Ng5+ wins the Black Queen.)
6. Re1 Qf4
7. Rxe5+ Kxf7
8. d4 Qf6
9. Ng5+ Kg6
10. Qd3+ Kh6
11. Nf7# ^[1]

Instead of the Greco, Black usually plays 2...Nc6 (the main line), 2...Nf6 (the Petroff Defense) or 2...d6 (the Philidor Defense), although the Latvian Gambit ( 2... f5!?), is also playable.