If Black strikes back immediately in the center with 6... c5, White typically continues with 7. h4 . This leads to highly concrete, move-by-move theory where White must maintain the central tension while keeping the pressure on the g6 bishop.
For those looking to master this specific repertoire, the Conquer the Caro-Kann: The Shirov Attack course provides detailed PGN analysis and training on these explosive lines. Conquer the Caro-Kann: The Shirov Attack | Chessable Conquer The Caro Kann The Shirov Attack pgn
Black often plays 6... h5 (or 6... h6) to provide an escape square for the bishop. In these lines, White must decide whether to exchange on h5 or push g5 , which restricts Black further but can leave the f5 square weak. If Black strikes back immediately in the center with 6
[Event "The Shirov Attack"] [Result "*"] 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 Bf5 4. Nc3 e6 5. g4! The defining move of the Shirov Attack. Bg6 6. Nge2 Preparing to trap the bishop with h4 or maneuver to f4/g3. * Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard This leads to highly concrete, move-by-move theory where
: By pushing g4 and potentially h4, White gains significant kingside territory.