Rapport-Jobava System
ECO D01 · 1. d4 d5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Bf4
The Rapport-Jobava System, also called the Jobava London, combines 1.d4 with an early Nc3 and Bf4. It is an aggressive cousin of the London System, popularized by Baadur Jobava and Richárd Rapport.
Plans for White
White plays Nc3 and Bf4, often followed by e3, Nb5 ideas against c7, and sometimes Qd2 and O-O-O with a kingside pawn storm. The knight on c3 supports an e4 push.
Plans for Black
Black can play ...c5 to challenge d4, ...a6 to stop Nb5, or a King's Indian setup with ...g6. Solid development and central counterplay are the main antidotes.
Typical pawn structures
London-like with the knight on c3 instead of the pawn, keeping the c-pawn behind the knight.
Who it suits
Attacking players who like the London's simplicity but want more dynamic play and are ready to castle queenside.
Common traps
Nb5 forks on c7 are the classic danger for Black if the c7 square is not covered, especially when Black's queen or bishop leaves the defense.
Variations
- Rapport-Jobava System, with e6 — 1. d4 d5 2. Nc3 e6 3. Bf4