Chess tactic

Endgame Puzzle (1404)

After the setup move Kc8, it is White to move. Find the forcing continuation before checking the solution.

Position after Kc8. White to move.

Puzzle ID

0mw0F

Rating

1404

Side to move

White

Themes

Endgame, Mate, Mate in 2

Material

Material is level

FEN

1rk5/p1p2q2/2P1N3/4Q3/P7/2P3Pp/7P/6K1 w - - 9 49

What to look for

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

49. Qh8+ 49... Qe8 50. Qxe8#

The full forcing line from the source position is:

48... Kc8 49. Qh8+ 49... Qe8 50. Qxe8#