Daily puzzle

#8 · June 17, 2026
David Howell
David Howell

Today you get to solve a puzzle from one of my own games. Featuring one of the tactics I'm most proud of! White has several active pieces, and the black king lacks defenders. How can White blow open the kingside and generate a devastating attack?

Played 2009, in Wijk aan Zee • Howell vs Bitalzadeh
Solution

Bxh6 gxh6 Nf6+ Bxf6 Bd3+ Kh8 Qe4

Well done. Checkmate with Qh7 is unstoppable. There's no feeling like a successful attack! I still remember the thrill of making these moves at the board. Always look out for these types of chances when your opponent's king lacks defensive pieces nearby.