Lichess Game of the Month September 2026 - Contest

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What to do in an Exchange French as black.

Engine didn't like Kb8, but I wanted to open the files (and prevent a queen exchange).

In my opinion, the most beautiful move of this game was 26. Nh7. That might look strange, for: 1) this move was made by my opponent, 2) Stockfish thinks it is a blunder (and for a good reason, as it does lose by force, as the game demonstrates). So, why do I think it is the most beautiful move of the game anyway (more beautiful than my rook sacrifice 29. ... Rxe3+)? After this move both captures result in mate in one, and 26. ... Nh5 (attacking the queen and defending the pawn g7) is answered by 27. Nf6+!! (one does not see many knight forks winning a knight!).