I'm playing as X and need to choose between positions 0,1 (top-middle), 0,2 (top-right), or 2,1 (bottom-middle).

Looking at the board:
- I already have Xs at positions 1,0, 1,1, and 2,2
- My opponent has Os at 0,0, 1,2, and 2,0

By placing my X at 0,2 (top-right), I create a diagonal threat from top-right to bottom-left, as I already have an X in the middle (1,1). This forces my opponent to block at position 2,1 in their next move.

This is the best strategic choice because it creates a potential winning threat while setting up future opportunities. If my opponent blocks the diagonal by playing at 2,1, I can then play at 0,1, creating another threat in column 1 - essentially setting up a fork situation where my opponent can't block both threats.