Learn How to Use an Intermezzo: Decisive Material Gain
This Ruy Lopez puzzle is a classic example of an intermezzo, where a forcing move changes the order of captures and wins material. Instead of reacting passively to the opponent’s threat, White uses a tactical refutation to exploit an undefended piece and the exposed coordination of Black’s rooks and bishop. The key idea is that a seemingly simple exchange can create a much stronger follow-up than the obvious recapture.