Back-rank mate in 3 on a8 (e4)
li-06L3gPuzzle rating: 874Theme: 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
26. Qxa8+ Bxa8 27. Rc8+ Qd8 28. Rxd8#
Why it works
- Great move! queen to a8 keeps the pressure (#2).
- Well found: rook to c8 (#1).
- Strong! rook to d8 is the sharp choice (#).
- The line ends in a forced mate in 3.
- If instead Bxa8, then Rc8+ and you stay on top.
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