White to Play and Win

Pete Tamburro on Aug 20, 2008

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In this clever problem by A. w. Daniel all Black has to do here is to give up either his knight or his rook for Black's c-pawn and White can't win. In fact he can give up both pieces to get at that pawn and White will not be able to force mate with just two knights.

In order for White to win, some clever play is in order.

Solution:

1.c7 Rc6 [1...Rh4+ 2.Kxc5 Rh1 3.c8Q+ with check; otherwise the rook could win the c-pawn after Rc1+.] 2.Nxc6 Nb7 3.Nce7 [3.c8R Nd6+ wins the promoted rook and draws.; 3.c8B stalemates.; 3.c8N Nd6+ 4.Nxd6 stalemates!; 3.c8Q is stalemate!] 3...Nd6+ [3...Ka7 4.Nf5 to guard against the knight fork. A king move would work, too. 4...Na5+ 5.Kb5 wins the knight and the pawn stays protected for its future coronation.] 4.Kc5 Ne4+ 5.Kc6 and White will queen the pawn.

Send questions and comments to PTamburro@aol.com.