Mate Puzzle (1174)

After the setup move b3, it is Black to move. Find the forcing continuation before checking the solution.

Position after b3. Black to move.

Puzzle ID

0Djhh

Rating

1174

Side to move

Black

Themes

Mate, Mate in 2, Middlegame

Material

Material is level

FEN

1k1r1b1r/1p2nRp1/p1p1p2p/q2pP3/2nP2PP/1PNQ2N1/P1PB4/2KR4 b - - 0 18

What to look for

Calculate a forcing checkmate sequence.

18... Qa3+ 19. Kb1 19... Qb2#

The full forcing line from the source position is:

18. b3 18... Qa3+ 19. Kb1 19... Qb2#