Welcome back to JMG Chess with Coach Gerald. Today, we analyze a remarkable game between former world champion Alexander Alekhine and subsequent champion Max Euwe. Despite some skepticism surrounding Euwe’s 1935 title victory, this game demonstrates his true prowess.
Euwe’s opening move, d4, sets the stage for a Slav Defense. As the game progresses, both players follow the main line, with Euwe’s knight e4 move putting pressure on the black knight at e5 and Alekhine responding with f6. Euwe’s queen c3 further increases the pressure on the knight, forcing Black to castle.
However, Alekhine’s subsequent queen b8 move proves to be a waste of time. A better choice would have been bishop e6, directly attacking the knight. Euwe capitalizes on this mistake, sacrificing his knight on e5 to open up the black position.
Despite the loss of a knight, Euwe’s bishop f4 pins the black bishop and rook, severely limiting Black’s mobility. Euwe’s bishop takes g7 further threatens the black queen, forcing Alekhine into a difficult position.
The game concludes with Euwe winning a crucial pawn and occupying the 7th rank with his rook, a powerful position that gives his pieces greater mobility. Alekhine’s attempts to counter are met with strong resistance, and he is eventually forced to resign. This game highlights Euwe’s strategic brilliance and proves his worthiness as a world champion.