Xuanxuan Qijing Problem 34: Black to play and kill
玄玄棋经 · Problem 34 of 347 · The point of symmetry
White needs a second eye on the top edge and has two ways to try for it. Look at the shape: Black has a forcing move on each side.
How to solve it
White has one eye and needs a second on the top edge. The shape is symmetrical, with a forcing move for Black on each side, and Black plays on the point of symmetry: K19.
If White plays J19, Black answers at H18. White's L19 is then met by M18. White's M18 is met by the forcing move J18 and then L19. White's J18 is met by the atari at L18 and the connection at M18.
If White plays H18 instead, Black plays the forcing move L18 and then J19, which takes away the eye space. White can struggle on with M18, but can neither capture the black stones nor make a second eye.
Main line
- 1. Black K19
- 2. White J19
- 3. Black H18
- 4. White L19
- 5. Black M18
Solution checked against Sensei's Library.
Play it out on the board
Place the stones yourself and see the refutation when you miss. All the Xuanxuan Qijing problems as quick lessons.