Playing Against the Ragozin Defense: Complete White Repertoire with 5.Bg5

Introduction

The Ragozin Defense (1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 d5 4.Nc3 Bb4) is a sophisticated opening choice that combines elements of the Queen’s Gambit Declined and Nimzo-Indian Defense. After 5.Bg5, Black faces a critical decision that will determine the character of the middlegame. This repertoire covers all five major responses, with special focus on the sharp 5…h6 line.

Black’s Five Main Options on Move 5

At this critical juncture, Black has five viable responses to 5.Bg5:

1. 5…h6 – The Main Line (Focus of this repertoire)

The most challenging and popular response. Black forces the exchange on f6, accepting doubled f-pawns in return for quick development and active piece play.

Character: Sharp, double-edged, rich in tactics White’s approach: 6.Bxf6 Qxf6 7.e3, aiming for the bishop pair advantage

2. 5…dxc4 – The Vienna Variation

Black immediately releases the central tension, aiming for quick piece activity.

Key line: 6.e4 c5 (transposing to Vienna Gambit structures) Character: Tactical, asymmetrical pawn structure White’s edge: Strong center and development advantage

3. 5…Nbd7 – The Solid Approach

Black develops naturally, keeping maximum flexibility with the central tension.

Key continuation: 6.e3 or 6.cxd5 Character: Strategic, maneuvering White’s plan: After 6.cxd5 exd5 7.Nd2, White can aim for minority attack or central play with the bishop pair

4. 5…c5 – Challenging the Center

Black immediately strikes at White’s center, leading to open positions.

Key line: 6.cxd5 exd5 7.dxc5 Character: Open, tactical White’s advantage: Better pawn structure and piece coordination

5. 5…O-O – The Flexible Option

Black castles immediately, postponing the central decision.

Key continuation: 6.e3 c5 7.cxd5 exd5 8.Bd3 (or 8.Be2) Character: Similar to other Queen’s Gambit structures White’s edge: Typically achieves comfortable equality with the two bishops