Chess tactic

Endgame Puzzle (1242)

After the setup move Bxa7, it is White to move. Find the forcing continuation before checking the solution.

Position after Bxa7. White to move.

Puzzle ID

0aek7

Rating

1242

Side to move

White

Themes

Endgame, Mate, Mate in 2

Material

Black is ahead by 6 points

FEN

5r2/b5p1/3R4/kp4r1/5n1p/2P2B2/PP4PP/7K w - - 0 36

What to look for

A tactic from a reduced-material position where king activity and promotion threats matter.

36. b4+ 36... Ka4 37. Ra6#

The full forcing line from the source position is:

35... Bxa7 36. b4+ 36... Ka4 37. Ra6#