Back-rank mate in 2 on a8 (a1·2)
li-02QKdPuzzle rating: 956Theme: Back rank: the king is trapped behind its own pawns — use that.
White to move — find the best continuation
The tactical motive
Back rank: the king is trapped behind its own pawns — use that.
White to move — find the best continuation
Solution & explanation
Main line
19. Ra8+ Rc8 20. Rxc8#
Why it works
- Great move! rook to a8 keeps the pressure (#1).
- Well found: rook to c8 (#).
- The line ends in a forced mate in 2.
- If instead Rc8, then Rxc8# and it is mate.
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