Pawn Structures in GM Games
This is the companion to our 8 Essential Pawn Structures and Ultimate Pawn Structure Guide. Where those articles teach the theory, this one shows the structures in action through real Grandmaster games, so you can see how the plans translate into moves.
The IQP in practice
Kasparov vs. Karpov, WCC 1985, Game 16: Kasparov demonstrates the dynamic potential of the IQP, piece activity, initiative, and a dangerous d4-d5 push. The IQP is not a weakness when supported by active pieces.
The Carlsbad structure
Botvinnik vs. Vidmar, Nottingham 1936: The minority attack in its purest form. White plays b4-b5, creates a weakness on c6, and pressures it relentlessly. This game is the textbook demonstration of the plan for every QGD Exchange player.
The French structure
Nimzowitsch vs. Salwe, Karlsbad 1911: White's f4-f5 kingside advance against Black's e6-d5 chain. Nimzowitsch shows how to attack the pawn chain from the correct side, the kingside, where the chain's "head" can be targeted.
The Hedgehog
Karpov vs. various: The Hedgehog (a6-b6-d6-e6) is a spring-loaded structure, Black waits, waits, waits, then strikes with ...b5 or ...d5 when the time is right. Karpov has played both sides masterfully. The key lesson: patience and timing determine whether the structure is passive or explosive. Study all these structures in the opening explorer and practise them on the analysis board.