Moscow (World Championship, Game 6) · 1960
Calculated Sacrifice
Mikhail Botvinnik vs. Mikhail Tal — Tal gives away a knight with 21...Nf4!! and a single pawn on f3 does the rest.
LevelStrong JuniorElo1300–1600ThemeCalculated sacrificeMoves46
8
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6
5
4
3
2
1
♜
♞
♝
♛
♚
♝
♞
♜
♟
♟
♟
♟
♟
♟
♟
♟
♙
♙
♙
♙
♙
♙
♙
♙
♖
♘
♗
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♗
♘
♖
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Moves · tap to jump
0/920/92
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Starting position
Ready
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Main lesson
A sacrifice is a calculation, not a mood. Tal gave up a knight because he had counted the pawn that follows.
What your student should learn
- A sacrifice is a calculation, not a mood.
- Advanced pawns near the king are attackers.
- Initiative can be worth more than a piece.
- Count the defenders before committing.
Mini tournament checklist
- ✓ Have I calculated at least three moves past the sacrifice?
- ✓ What does my opponent play if they decline?
- ✓ Do I keep giving checks or threats?
- ✓ Is there a safe strong move instead?
Run through this list before you start an attack in a real game. Mostly yes means look for tactics; otherwise improve one more piece first.
Full move list
A Quiet King’s Indian
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Piling Up On The c-File
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The Knight Sacrifice
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22.
Pawns Instead Of Pieces
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Winning The Endgame
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46.
Note: Tal played Black. Stop after 20...Bxf5 and ask what Black should play — then reveal 21...Nf4!!