1. e2e4  1... c7c6  2. b1c3 Wesley goes for the flexible Two Knights variation against the Caro-Kann. 2... d7d5  3. g1f3  3... c8g4 Melkumyan goes for the classical line. 4. h2h3  4... g4f3  5. d1f3  5... e7e6 Having exchanged his problematic light-squared bishop, Black sets up a super-solid pyramidal structure in the center. It allows him to develop his pieces to their natural squares and complete the opening smoothly. On the other hand, White's bishop pair may prove to be an asset in the long run, but it isn't simple to open up the position to maximize its potential. Moreover, the knight is not placed ideally on c3, and White usually needs to reroute it to a better square in the future. In short, both sides have something to look forward to in the ensuing middlegame. 6. f1e2 This simple developing move is probably the most popular among several reasonable options. 6... f8c5 Black takes control of the d4-square since White might want to go d2-d4 at some point. 7. e1g1  7... b8d7  8. e4d5 Typically, White doesn't release the tension in the center so early, but Wesley wants to prepare the d4-break without worrying about his opponent pushing the pawn to d4 himself. 8... c6d5  9. f1d1  9... g8f6  10. d2d4 We are about to enter the reversed Carlsbad structure, quite typical of the Caro-Kann Defense. Because both sides have some pieces on suboptimal squares, adjustments are needed; over the next few moves, Black will reroute his knight to c6, while White will bring the bishop to the b1-h7 diagonal and transfer the knight from c3 to e2. 10... c5e7 