The Open Spanish is one of Blacks most direct methods of fighting against the Ruy Lopez. Instead of subjecting himself to the so-called Spanish torture of the Closed Ruy Lopez, Black boldly captures the e4-pawn and provokes an early confrontation. Grandmaster Repertoire 13 The Open Spanish provides a complete repertoire for Black after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6, based on the Open Variation which occurs after 5.00 Nxe4. Blacks system is built on the principles of fast and active development, and fighting for the initiative whenever the opportunity arises.