I played 3.g4 inspired by Mamedyarov and won against an opponent rated 400 higher

Recently I was inspired by Mamedyarov vs. Esipenko game in Tata Steel 2022 Round 2, where Mamedyarov played 3.g4 against the Indian, since I'm usually a 1.d4 player. Earlier today when I was matched against this player who was much higher rated, I decided to play it as a surprise. It turned out to be my best rated victory.

There was a major blunder 22.rge1?? by me. My opponent was probably so distracted with my advanced center pawns that s/he didn't spot my knight hanging.

I was particularly proud a while after when I played 24. nxc5. If my opponent took with the pawn the attack would be unstoppable.

Just want to share this game with such 'trendy' openings. Feel free to let me know how can I improve!

24.Nc5! is a really nice move, good job finding that!

Leaving the knight hanging on c3 was a brave choice too -- good job spotting the importance of your initiative in that position.

While you're on the g4!? train, here's another fun example of that theme:



White blunders toward the end of the middlegame and spoils a nice position.

You may also want to check out Mamedyarov's games in the Budapest gambit, Abonyi Bayonet variation:

1.d4 Nf6
2.c4 e5
3.de Ng4
4.Bf4 g5!?