Counter-Intuitive Exchanges
In the diagrammed position, White is holding small advantage thanks to the certain pressure on the queenside. But it appears that Black will be able to free himself as Nc6 is challenging wonderfully placed Nb4. Then, if 24. Nxc6 Bxc6 25. Bxc6 Rxc6 we have drawish Rook endgame, while 24. Nd5 or 24. Nd3 can be met with 24…b4! where Black is blocking a2-pawn and increases the scope of his pieces.
24. Bxc6!
Unexpected, but positionally justified solution. The Knight on b4 is very valuable piece for White. It blocks b5 pawn on the light square, the same as Bishop’s color, defends a2 and covers 2nd rank entry point on c2. The Knight is also controlling c6 and d5, which are important squares for Black Bishop, while the piece itself cannot be attacked again.
Every chess player was warned at some point of his/her study (verbally or by reading a book), that fianchettoed Bishop should not be exchanged if this leaves enemy’s Bishop of the same color to run unopposed on the just weakened square complex. This issue is also directly connected with the King’s safety.
