Chess tactic

Endgame Puzzle (1573)

After the setup move Rc1, it is White to move. Find the forcing continuation before checking the solution.

Position after Rc1. White to move.

Puzzle ID

0UPRg

Rating

1573

Side to move

White

Themes

Endgame, Mate, Mate in 3

Material

Black is ahead by 5 points

FEN

8/1R4pp/p1R2p2/k1p2P2/8/P3b1r1/KP6/2r5 w - - 12 40

What to look for

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

40. b4+ 40... cxb4 41. axb4+ 41... Ka4 42. Rxa6#

The full forcing line from the source position is:

39... Rc1 40. b4+ 40... cxb4 41. axb4+ 41... Ka4 42. Rxa6#