Karpov vs Unzicker (Nice Olympiad 1974) is a classic “squeeze” where White builds a space bind, removes counterplay, and only then finishes with a direct kingside breakthrough. This game is iconic because Karpov never needs flashy tactics—he simply improves pieces until Black is tied up and the position becomes unplayable.
Match context
This was played at the Nice Olympiad (Final-A), Round 4, on June 18, 1974. Unzicker was a world-class defender, which makes the clean, technical way Karpov increases pressure even more instructive.
Opening and key plan
From a Ruy Lopez (ECO C98), Karpov closes the center with 13.d5 and then expands on both wings—first gaining queenside space (a4/b4 ideas), then rerouting pieces toward the kingside. The plan is simple and brutal: restrict Black’s pieces, stop freeing breaks, and slowly line up an f-pawn attack once Black is cramped.
Game facts
- Event: Nice Olympiad Final-A.
- Site/Date: Nice (FRA), 1974-06-18.
- Round: 4.
- White: Anatoly Karpov.
- Black: Wolfgang Unzicker.
- Result: 1–0.
- ECO: C98.
Critical moments of the game
- 13.d5: The center closes, and the game becomes about maneuvering—perfect terrain for Karpov’s style.
- 16.b4: Space grab with a clear message: Black will be cramped, and piece freedom will keep shrinking.
- 24.Ba7: A very “Karpov” move—quiet, awkward for the opponent, and it increases control without rushing tactics.
- 30.f4–31.f5: The squeeze turns into a kingside clamp; Black is forced into passive defenses (…f6, …g5) that concede squares.
- 41.Bxf7+: The moment Karpov cashes in—simplifying at the right time and transitioning into a won attack/structure where Black can’t untangle.
Lessons
- If you can choose the pawn structure, choose the one that favors your style: 13.d5 locks the position and makes maneuvering decisive.
- Space advantage is only valuable if you convert it into restriction—16.b4 isn’t “an attack,” it’s a long-term prison.
- Don’t start pawn storms early: Karpov only plays f4–f5 after his pieces are ideally placed and Black is already tied up.
- “Quiet” moves can be the loudest: 24.Ba7 is instructive because it improves the position without creating risk.
