TinyChan

One of the first principles any chess beginner is taught is to keep his king safe and castle as soon as possible. However, as a player progresses in strength, this rule becomes more flexible. Nevertheless, it is never wise to disregard the king for too long, and a king in the centre can easily find itself in trouble. It feels appropriate to begin the chess with one of our beloved chess pioneers and the third World Champion, Capablanca. While most famous for his positional and end-game skills, when needed - as here - Capablanca did not back down when challenged to attack. Due to his opponent's poor opening play, the Cuban was able to secure many great positional advantages, such as the weak black pawn on e5 and many weak squares as well, such as e6. But the first thing a true attacking player will notice is the black king on e8, which has not castled yet and is extremely vulnerable at the moment. The number one rule of attacking the king in the centre is to have no mercy. Open the position at all costs and simply go after the king! It is often more complicated than that, but in many situations this rule holds water. With the king in the centre, there is almost always a way to punish your opponent, and Capablanca does just that.