In the FIDE World Cup 2025, held in Panaji, India, four Indian grandmasters have reached the fourth round, while World Champion Gukesh D was knocked out.
The tournament is a single‑elimination event featuring 206 players from 82 countries who are competing for the Viswanathan Anand Cup. The early rounds have already showcased India’s strong presence in global chess.
Praggnanandhaa’s sharp play
GM R. Praggnanandhaa, the third‑highest ranked Indian, used a slight edge he gained in the middle‑game to outmaneuver Armenian GM Robert Hovhannisyan. After a tiebreak to reach the third round and a solid first match with black, Praggnanandhaa pressed hard. By move 27 he had his queen and rook threatening Hovhannisyan’s king, and the Armenian resigned after 42 moves.
India’s other performers
- V. Harikrishna started the round with a quick win against Belgium’s GM Daniel Dardha and then drew the next game, keeping his place in the fourth round.
- GM Arjun Erigaisi and World Junior Champion GM Pranav V also advanced without taking unnecessary risks, sharing points in two draws.
- GM Vidit Gujrathi, Karthik Venkataraman and GM Narayanan S will play Sunday’s tiebreak after drawing both games in this round.
Gukesh D’s exit
World Champion Gukesh D. lost his third‑round match to German GM Frederik Svane. After a draw in the first game, Gukesh swung for a win in the second. Svane managed to stay ahead of the clock and forced Gukesh into a losing knight‑pawn ending, prompting his resignation.
Upcoming battles
Arjun Erigaisi will face Hungarian GM Peter Leko, who swept Korean GM Kirill Alekseenko in both games of Round 3. The Italian audience is ready for more action as the tournament moves toward its final stages.
With India’s strong showing, the FIDE World Cup 2025 continues to be a thrilling showcase of chess talent from around the world.
Source: ianslive
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