Vintage Portisch on the 3.Bb5+ Sicilian(B52)

Here is an interesting game in a very popular sideline.

The middlegame themes illustrated include

• Queenside counterplay
• Quiet maneuvering
• Small tactics
• Choosing the right pawn center

Garcia Martinez,Silvino - Portisch,Lajos [B52]
Palma de Mallorca Palma de Mallorca (2), 1971

Critical Position 1
Black has an equal position. The forces are not yet in direct contact. Now it is time to form a plan. What do you propose for black?

Black to play

Critical Position 2
White is attacking Nb6. What should black do?

Black to play

Critical Position 3
The stray rook is almost trapped. How do you play?

Black to play