Petrov Defense Cozio Attack (Qe2)

The Cozio (also known as the Lasker Attack) is infamous for almost always ending in a draw, which makes it perfect for taming the Petrov player!

For an introduction to the Petrov Defense, watch this video on the basics:    • Petrov Defense | Ideas, Principles an...  

For an aggressive alternative to the Cozio, try the Nimzowitsch Attack:    • Petrov Defense Nimzowitsch Attack (Nc3)  

The Cozio Attack should really be called the Cozio draw offer if you ask me, considering that almost 90% of the games played on high levels end in a draw! For us mere mortals, though, it’s still possible for either side to win, so it doesn’t apply that well. Anyhow, if you want to choose a simple, equal variation, then this one is for you.

The reason for the peaceful nature of the position is the early queen exchange which is almost inevitable. When white plays the move Qe2, even though it may seem aggressive, chasing the knight away from e4, it actually leads to an exchange which renders any attack too weak.

Despite the exchange of queens, the symmetrical pawn structure, and an overall lack of imbalances, strong players still choose the Cozio against the Petrov. It has been played by Carlsen, So, Kramnik, Nakamura and many others.

It may be a good choice of opening when facing very strong opponents. Since the will be under pressure to win the game, the fact that there isn’t a simple way to do so may lead to them risking too much and creating weaknesses which you could then try to exploit.

As for whose games you should study to learn the Cozio Attack, you needn’t look further than Fabiano Caruana. He is the expert on the Petrov Defense at the moment, and he has faced every single line imaginable. His games will provide ideas for both black and white. Study them and you will be able to gather enough experience to play the Cozio Attack well!

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