[Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "St. Louis, USA"] [Date "2023.11.21"] [Round "1"] [White "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Black "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "B90"] [WhiteElo "2745"] [BlackElo "2795"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "129"] [Beauty "4880848656905"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,129,22,24,48,50,62,48,48,21,37,34,41,19,19,19,19,39,17,17,42,20,22,29,29,29,33,36,46,44,40,36,79,57,48,34,48,20,20,11,11,11,16,16,33,14,14,9,8,0,0,0,0,0,0,-7,43,43,36,43,65,65,79,44,65,44,79,52,50,49,49,48,42,40,40,40,44,44,44,38,38,32,36,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,-24,-16,-6,-8,-9,-9,-35,0,0,0,-18,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0]} 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. Nc3 a6 6. f3 e5 7. Nb3 Be6 8. Be3 Be7 9. Qd2 h5 {When I was a child, I studied the Najdorf Defense to the point that I almost memorized the fantastic book \"The Najdorf for the Tournament Player\" by John Nunn. Back then, this type of move, moving a pawn on the side that your opponent is going to attack, was unthinkable. But chess strategy advances and each generation learns something new. The move h7-h5 has become one of Black's main options against the English Attack and the idea was even carried over to other variations of the Sicilian Defense.} 10. Nd5 Nxd5 11. exd5 Bf5 12. Be2 a5 {It's not a very pretty move, but this is part of the Najdorf players' arsenal, played in several similar positions.} (12... Bh4+ {was played twice against Dominguez this year.} 13. g3 Be7 14. O-O-O Nd7 15. Kb1 Rc8 16. Rc1 {Both games arrived at this position.} O-O (16... Nb6 $6 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 17. Na5 $1 {[%c_effect a5;square;a5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qc7 18. Ka1 Bd8 19. c4 Nxd5 20. Qxd5 Qxa5 21. Qxb7 O-O 22. Rhd1 {With a clear advantage for White in Dominguez Perez-Perez Ponsa, Airthings Masters Chess.com rapid 2023.}) 17. Ka1 {White can play c4 and also g4 later. I prefer his position, although the game is complicated: Dominguez Perez-Le, Aimchess Rapid Chess.com 2023.}) 13. a4 Bh4+ 14. g3 Be7 {This position has been tested in many correspondence games. The idea of inserting a5-a4 is, I imagine, to prevent the white knight jumping to a5.} 15. Bb5+ (15. Bd3 {is also popular.}) 15... Bd7 16. Qe2 O-O 17. Nd2 $1 {[%c_effect d2;square;d2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] An important move to reposition the knight at the best moment.} (17. O-O-O Bxb5 18. Qxb5 Qd7 {Black is fine.}) 17... Bxb5 18. Qxb5 Bg5 (18... Qd7 $2 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Black has no time for this move anymore, since after} 19. Nc4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] White's idea becomes clear.}) 19. Bxg5 Qxg5 20. O-O-O Rc8 21. Kb1 {When in doubt, play Kb1.} (21. Qxb7 $2 {[%c_effect b7;square;b7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Of course you don't face the Sicilian with the intention of capturing this type of pawn.} Na6) 21... Na6 {A new move. It's redundant to say that Caruana is well-prepared.} (21... Qe7 22. f4 Qc7 23. Rc1 Nd7 24. fxe5 Nxe5 25. Qe2 Qc5 {later ended in a draw in Hild-Baranowski, EU-ch 2020 ICCF email.}) 22. Ne4 Qd8 23. f4 Nc5 24. Rhe1 Nxe4 25. Rxe4 f5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 26. Re3 e4 {The last moves from both sides were very logical.} 27. Qe2 (27. g4 {This move is a critical idea that must be analyzed on every move for White. Here it still doesn't work well after} Qh4 $1 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (27... hxg4 28. h3 {with a dangerous attack on the kingside. This is the idea behind the pawn sac with g4.}) 28. gxf5 Qxh2 {With equal chances.}) 27... Qd7 $1 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A very accurate move and the only one to equalize. Black should not passively defend the h5-pawn.} (27... g6 $2 {[%c_effect g6;square;g6;type;Mistake;persistent;true] leads to tragedy after} 28. g4 $1 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} hxg4 29. h3 {The computer already considers the attack winning.}) (27... Qe8 $2 {[%c_effect e8;square;e8;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 28. g4 $1 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] There's a big difference between the placement of the queen on d7 or e8.} hxg4 (28... fxg4 29. Rxe4 {This is the problem: the queen is badly-placed.}) 29. h3 {With a strong attack.}) 28. Qxh5 (28. b3 {Black must be fast, before White can stabilize the position with c2-c4 and play g4.} Qc7 $1 {[%c_effect c7;square;c7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] With the idea of playing b5 now that the white queen is unable to capture the pawn.} 29. c4 Qb6 30. Ka2 Qb4 $5 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} (30... Rc7 {is also possible.}) 31. Qxh5 b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Black is in time. The game ends in perpetual check after} 32. Qxf5 bxc4 33. Qe6+ Kh8 34. Qh3+) (28. g4 fxg4 $1 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is the big difference.} 29. Rxe4 Rf8 {With a fine position for Black.}) 28... Qxa4 29. Rd2 Rf8 $6 {[%c_effect f8;square;f8;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] This is inaccurate.} (29... Qb5 {is better, with a probable draw:} 30. Qxf5 Qf1+ 31. Ka2 Qc4+) 30. g4 $1 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qe8 31. Qg5 Qd8 32. Qh5 (32. gxf5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the best move.} Qxg5 33. fxg5 Rxf5 34. Rxe4 Rxg5 35. Re7 {With an unpleasant defense ahead for Black.}) 32... Qe8 (32... Qf6 {is indicated by the machine, with the idea} 33. g5 g6 $1 {[%c_effect g6;square;g6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with equality.}) 33. Qh3 (33. Qg5) 33... Qg6 34. Rg2 Qh7 35. Qxh7+ {Keeping the queens on the board is also possible, but it doesn't guarantee White any special advantage.} (35. Qg3 Rf7) 35... Kxh7 36. gxf5 Rxf5 37. Rxe4 Raf8 38. Rg4 (38. Re7 {is met by} R8f7) 38... b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] It's important to prevent c2-c4.} (38... Rxd5 $2 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 39. Re7) 39. b3 b4 {Black finally manages to equalize the game.} 40. Rd4 {It's clear that such a move is harmless, but there's no adequate winning attempt.} (40. Re6 R8f6) (40. Re7 R8f7) 40... Rh5 41. h4 Rf6 42. Re4 Rxd5 43. Rg5 Rdf5 {Everything leads to a draw.} (43... Rxg5 44. hxg5 Rf5) (43... Rd1+ 44. Kb2 Rf1 45. Re7 Rg6) 44. Re7 Rxg5 (44... Rf7 {is also equal.}) 45. fxg5 Rf4 46. h5 {An interesting drawing variation occurs after:} (46. Rd7 Rxh4 47. Rxd6 Rg4 48. Rd5 Kg6 49. Rxa5 Rxg5 50. Rxg5+ Kxg5 51. c3 bxc3 52. b4 Kf4 53. b5 Ke5 54. Kc2 {and the pawns will soon be exchanged.}) 46... Rf5 47. h6 Rxg5 48. hxg7 Rxg7 49. Re1 {White ends up a pawn down, but this is temporary. His active rook ensures that the material will be recovered.} Rg5 (49... d5 50. Rd1 Rd7 51. Kb2 Kg6 52. Ra1 Ra7 53. Rd1 Rd7 {with a draw.}) 50. Rd1 d5 51. Re1 $1 {[%c_effect e1;square;e1;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kg7 52. Re6 Kf7 53. Ra6 d4 54. Rd6 Rg1+ 55. Kb2 Rd1 56. Rd5 d3 57. cxd3 (57. Rxd3 {Even this move is a clear draw.} Rxd3 58. cxd3 Ke6 59. Kc2 Kd5 60. Kd2 {Let's play a bad move for White, just for curiosity's sake. Is Black winning now $2} Kd4 61. Kc2 Ke3 62. d4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kxd4 63. Kd2 {No. It's still a draw.}) 57... Ke6 58. Rxa5 Rd2+ 59. Kc1 Rxd3 60. Ra4 Rxb3 61. Kc2 Rc3+ 62. Kb2 Rc4 63. Kb3 Rd4 64. Rxb4 Rxb4+ 65. Kxb4 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.22"] [Round "2"] [White "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Black "Aronian, Levon"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C65"] [WhiteElo "2795"] [BlackElo "2727"] [PlyCount "100"] [Beauty "5571646330911"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 3. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 4. d3 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 5. Bxc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} dxc6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 6. c3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:03:22]} 7. d4 {[%emt 0:01:01]} exd4 {[%emt 0:04:11]} 8. cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Bb4+ {[%emt 0:00:05]} 9. Bd2 {[%emt 0:14:19]} a5 {[%emt 0:00:42]} 10. O-O {[%emt 0:01:20]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:40]} 11. Bg5 {[%emt 0:07:31]} f6 {[%emt 0:04:19]} 12. Bh4 {[%emt 0:00:23]} Nb6 {[%emt 0:02:38]} 13. a3 {[%emt 0:01:12]} Be7 {[%emt 0:03:04]} 14. Re1 {[%emt 0:06:59]} Be6 {[%emt 0:11:21]} 15. Nbd2 {[%emt 0:05:22]} Nc4 {[%emt 0:03:15]} 16. Nxc4 {[%emt 0:08:14]} Bxc4 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 17. Rc1 {[%emt 0:00:45]} Bf7 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 18. Bg3 {[%emt 0:01:19]} a4 {[%emt 0:16:12]} 19. Rc3 {[%emt 0:11:55]} Re8 {[%emt 0:04:13]} 20. h3 {[%emt 0:03:03]} Bf8 {[%emt 0:02:33]} 21. Qc1 {[%emt 0:04:09]} Qd7 {[%emt 0:04:09]} 22. d5 {[%emt 0:07:43]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:34]} 23. Rce3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Ra6 {[%emt 0:02:35]} 24. Rd1 {[%emt 0:03:34]} Bh5 {[%emt 0:02:26]} 25. Rde1 {[%emt 0:02:05]} Bf7 {[%emt 0:00:20]} 26. Qc2 {[%emt 0:02:43]} b5 {[%emt 0:03:38]} 27. Rd1 $5 {[%emt 0:03:11] [%c_effect d1;square;d1;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Intentionally tempting Aronian to play 27...c6, eyeing the potential skewer with ...Bb3.} c6 {[%emt 0:02:49]} 28. d6 $1 {[%emt 0:04:40] [%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Caruana accurately sacrifices the exchange to create this powerful passer.} Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 29. Rxb3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} axb3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 30. Qxb3+ {[%emt 0:00:43]} (30. Qxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Rxe4 31. Nd4 h6 32. Nxb3 {and the knight will soon head to c5, breaking the blockade of the passed d-pawn.}) 30... c4 {[%emt 0:03:32]} (30... Qe6 $4 {[%c_effect e6;square;e6;type;Blunder;persistent;true]} 31. Qxe6+ Rxe6 32. d7) 31. Qe3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} c3 {[%emt 0:17:50]} 32. Qxc3 {[%emt 0:01:16]} Rxe4 $6 {[%emt 0:00:50] [%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] This allows White's optimum knight maneuver: Nd2-b3-c5 with tempo.} 33. Nd2 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 34. Nb3 {[%emt 0:00:13]} Qf7 {[%emt 0:03:56]} 35. Qf3 {[%emt 0:04:18]} Ra7 {[%emt 0:04:35]} 36. Nc5 {[%emt 0:01:57]} Rc8 {[%emt 0:01:48]} 37. b4 {[%emt 0:00:26] Caruana has achieved a dream position with his advanced passer and supportive active pieces.} h6 {[%emt 0:01:15]} 38. Rd3 {[%emt 0:01:20]} f5 {[%emt 0:00:26]} 39. Bf4 {[%emt 0:02:35]} g5 {[%emt 0:00:40] A burst of aggression as the players try to make the time control.} 40. Be5 {[%emt 0:00:16]} Qg6 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 41. Qd1 {[%emt 0:10:05]} Rd8 {[%emt 0:02:09]} 42. f4 {[%emt 0:01:44]} gxf4 $1 {[%emt 0:02:17] [%c_effect f4;square;f4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Despite how unappealing this move at first appears, Aronian correctly assesses that it's Black who will be able to use the half-open g-file.} 43. Bxf4 {[%emt 0:12:14]} Rg7 {[%emt 0:00:57]} ({Best was} 43... Kh7 {when Black can meet} 44. Rg3 {with} Bxd6 $3 {[%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;Brilliant;persistent;true] and the tactics favor Aronian.}) 44. Qd2 {[%emt 0:00:49]} Qf6 {[%emt 0:01:13]} 45. Qa2+ {[%emt 0:05:37]} Qf7 {[%emt 0:02:39]} 46. Qxf7+ {[%emt 0:02:12]} Kxf7 {[%emt 0:00:27]} 47. Nb7 {[%emt 0:00:27]} Rd7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 48. Nc5 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Rd8 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 49. Nb7 {[%emt 0:00:45]} Rd7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 50. Nc5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Rd8 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "St. Louis, USA"] [Date "2023.11.22"] [Round "2"] [White "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Black "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "A34"] [WhiteElo "2771"] [BlackElo "2745"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "174"] [Beauty "3986824378892"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,174,19,-18,16,13,13,14,14,18,23,23,23,31,31,17,9,-12,11,3,-13,-4,-4,-10,12,12,12,16,31,15,11,-33,-33,-25,-22,-33,-33,-33,-33,-32,-34,-34,-22,-35,-28,-23,-15,-48,-12,-42,-48,-66,-51,-88,-90,-190,10,2,14,18,29,23,73,73,82,64,67,72,72,72,68,68,64,67,67,64,78,64,87,74,90,84,105,94,116,135,136,135,142,139,135,135,142,135,136,136,141,136,136,131,136,136,136,128,133,136,153,140,155,146,158,147,156,150,143,136,158,175,175,182,163,163,163,158,158,165,163,154,163,163,161,152,151,163,140,180,210,200,204,118,144,147,144,64,109,74,65,29,35,20,20,17,40,35,39,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0]} 1. c4 c5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 d5 5. cxd5 Nxd5 6. Bg2 g6 7. Ne4 $5 {[%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] An interesting idea, played in a few games, but almost all at the highest level. Dominguez already knew it from a blitz game played in 2016.} c4 (7... Qb6 8. O-O Bg7 9. d3 {was played in Ding-Dominguez, China Elite Mind Blitz, Huaian 2016. White's idea could be to exploit the not very comfortable queen position on b6 with the Nd2-c4 maneuver or to attack the c5-pawn with Qc2.} (9. Qc2 $5 {[%c_effect c2;square;c2;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} Bf5 10. d3 Bxe4 11. dxe4 Ndb4 12. Qb1 {with an interesting and unbalanced position.})) (7... b6 $6 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] Here White's idea is made clear after} 8. d4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) (7... e5 {is possible, but after} 8. d3 f5 9. Nc3 {Black has to suffer the consequences of excessive pawn advances.}) 8. Qc2 b5 (8... f5 {is also possible. A blitz game continued:} 9. Nc3 Bg7 10. Nxd5 Qxd5 11. O-O O-O 12. d3 cxd3 13. exd3 {with chances for both sides in Svane-Vidit, Titled Tuesday Chess.com 2020.}) 9. b3 {White tries to break up the pawn structure, but Black has resources of his own.} Bg7 10. Bb2 Ndb4 11. Qc1 Bxb2 12. Qxb2 O-O 13. O-O {A new move. White quickly went downhill in the only game played before, which went} (13. a3 Bf5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 14. Nh4 $2 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} Qd4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with a winning position for Black: Firouzja-Erigaisi, Airthings Masters Rapid 2023.}) 13... Rb8 14. a3 Bf5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 15. Nh4 Bxe4 16. Bxe4 Nd5 17. bxc4 {This exchange helps Black, as the rook on b8 becomes active. It is more prudent to start with} (17. Nf3 {since after} Na5 {White can play} 18. b4) 17... bxc4 18. Qc2 Na5 {Nepomniachtchi's opening experiment was clearly unsuccessful.} 19. Rab1 Nf6 20. Bg2 Qd6 (20... Rb3 $1 {[%c_effect b3;square;b3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is unpleasant to face. If White captures the rook, the b3-pawn becomes dangerous. Otherwise Black plays ...Qb6 and takes control of the b-file.} 21. Nf3 (21. Rxb3 cxb3) 21... Qb6) 21. Nf3 Rxb1 (21... Rb3 {is again interesting.}) 22. Rxb1 Qxa3 23. Nd4 (23. Ne5 {It seems that White has enough compensation to make a draw after this move, for example:} Rc8 24. Qc3 Qxc3 25. dxc3) 23... Rc8 24. h3 {A somewhat mysterious move, but it gives air to the king and may be speculating on g3-g4 in future.} (24. Qc3 {is possible again:} Qxc3 25. dxc3 {with enough play for a draw.}) 24... e5 25. Nb5 Qc5 26. Qa4 Nb3 27. Qa6 $1 {[%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (27. Nxa7 {is natural, but doesn't solve all the problems:} Rc7 (27... Nxd2 {is bad due to} 28. Rb5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) (27... Rd8 {is also possible.}) 28. Nb5 Nxd2 29. Nxc7 Nxb1 {with winning chances for Black.}) 27... Rb8 $6 {[%c_effect b8;square;b8;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] This move allows White to capture the c-pawn.} (27... Kg7 {is better. White still has to defend a long endgame after} 28. Nd6 Rd8 29. Nxc4 (29. Nb7 $2 {[%c_effect b7;square;b7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] loses to} Qc8 $1 {[%c_effect c8;square;c8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 29... Nxd2 30. Nxd2 Rxd2 31. Ra1) 28. Na3 $1 {[%c_effect a3;square;a3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kg7 29. Nxc4 Rb4 30. Ne3 (30. d3 {leads to a draw.} e4 (30... Nd4 31. Rxb4 Qxb4)) 30... e4 {Black starts to get into trouble after this move, which opens the a1-h8 diagonal.} (30... Nxd2 $2 {[%c_effect d2;square;d2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] loses a piece after} 31. Rxb4 Qxb4 32. Qxf6+ $1 {[%c_effect f6;square;f6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kxf6 33. Nd5+) (30... Rb5 {is the best way to make a draw.}) 31. Qa3 $1 {[%c_effect a3;square;a3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qb6 32. d3 (32. g4 $5 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] creates some serious practical chances. Black has to play very accurately to survive.} h6 $1 {[%c_effect h6;square;h6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 33. h4 Rb5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 34. g5 hxg5 35. hxg5 Ne8 36. Nc4 Qb8 $1 {[%c_effect b8;square;b8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 37. Qe7 {Even after playing all those forced moves, Black still has problems to solve.}) 32... exd3 33. exd3 a5 $1 {[%c_effect a5;square;a5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] It's necessary to protect the rook on b4, even though this loses a pawn.} 34. Nc4 Qb5 35. Nxa5 $1 {[%c_effect a5;square;a5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Ra4 36. Qxb3 Qxa5 {Who would have imagined that after suffering so much in the opening and middlegame, White would achieve an endgame with an extra pawn $2 It should be drawn without any major problems, it's true, but I have the impression that this residual memory affected the remaining play, since they both made more mistakes than expected.} 37. Qb5 Qa7 (37... Qxb5 38. Rxb5 Rd4 39. Bf1 h5 $1 {[%c_effect h5;square;h5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The computer is very confident that Black will make a draw here, although I'd still be worried.}) 38. Qe5 Ra5 39. Qe3 Qc7 40. d4 {White manages to advance the pawn. The evaluation of the game won't change for a long time. Let's fast forward to a critical moment.} Ra7 41. Rc1 Qd8 42. d5 Rd7 43. Qd4 Kg8 44. Rc5 Ne8 $1 {[%c_effect e8;square;e8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The knight is known as an excellent blockader.} 45. Rc6 Qe7 46. Bf3 Nd6 47. Kg2 Rd8 48. h4 h5 49. Ra6 Nf5 50. Qa1 Rd6 51. Ra8+ Rd8 52. Ra2 Qd6 53. Be4 Re8 54. Ra8 Ng7 55. Ra6 Qe7 56. Bd3 Rd8 57. Ra7 {Here the drama begins again.} Rd7 $2 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (57... Qd6 {is necessary, with excellent drawing chances.}) 58. Rxd7 Qxd7 59. Qa8+ {The important detail is that the white queen can use the c6-square as support.} Qe8 (59... Kh7 60. Qc6 $1 {[%c_effect c6;square;c6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] followed by the advance of the pawn.}) (59... Ne8 60. Bc2 $1 {[%c_effect c2;square;c2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This nice move, with the idea of Ba4, wins.}) 60. Qc6 $2 {[%c_effect c6;square;c6;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (60. Qxe8+ {The bishop-versus-knight endgame is winning. This surprised me at first, as I thought a defense would be possible with the knight blocking the pawn on d6 and the h-pawn's queening square a different color from the bishop. But the computer relentlessly shows victory.} Nxe8 61. Kf3 Nd6 62. Kf4 Kf8 63. f3 $1 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Nb7 64. g4 hxg4 65. fxg4 Nd6 66. Ke5 Ke7 67. Kd4 {Kc5 will follow, and Black is unable to sustain the defense.}) 60... Kf8 61. Qc5+ Kg8 62. d6 Qa8+ 63. Kg1 Qa1+ 64. Kg2 (64. Kh2 $1 {[%c_effect h2;square;h2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is better, retaining some winning chances after} Ne6 65. Qd5) 64... Qa8+ 65. Kh2 Ne6 66. Qc4 Qa7 $2 {[%c_effect a7;square;a7;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (66... Qf3 $1 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Black has a pretty draw after this move.} 67. Kg1 Qd1+ 68. Kg2 Nf4+ $3 {[%c_effect f4;square;f4;type;Brilliant;persistent;true] This is the point.} 69. Qxf4 (69. gxf4 Qg4+ {with perpetual check.}) 69... Qxd3 {The queen endgame is drawn since White's king cannot easily escape from the checks.}) 67. Kg2 Qd4 68. Qxd4 Nxd4 69. d7 $2 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] After this mistake, Black is able to escape.} (69. f4 $1 {[%c_effect f4;square;f4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the right way, preparing Kf2-e3. Play may continue:} Kf8 70. Kf2 Ke8 71. Ke3 Ne6 72. Bb5+ $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kf8 73. Ke4 {with a winning position for White.}) 69... Nc6 70. Bb5 Nd8 71. Kf3 Kf8 72. Ke4 Ke7 73. f4 Ne6 {The knight performs miracles and saves Black.} 74. Bc6 Kd6 75. Ba4 Nc5+ 76. Kd4 Nxd7 77. Bxd7 Kxd7 78. f5 Ke7 79. Ke5 f6+ 80. Kf4 gxf5 81. Kxf5 Kf7 82. Kf4 Ke6 83. g4 hxg4 84. Kxg4 Kf7 85. Kf5 Kg7 86. h5 Kh6 87. Kxf6 Kxh5 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.22"] [Round "2"] [White "Firouzja, Alireza"] [Black "Giri, Anish"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C54"] [WhiteElo "2777"] [BlackElo "2752"] [PlyCount "60"] [Beauty "6600559431690"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 3. Bc4 {[%emt 0:00:36]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:20]} 4. d3 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 5. O-O {[%emt 0:00:19]} O-O {[%emt 0:01:14]} 6. Nbd2 {[%emt 0:00:52]} d6 {[%emt 0:01:05]} 7. c3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} a5 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 8. Re1 {[%emt 0:02:33]} Be6 {[%emt 0:00:58]} 9. b3 {[%emt 0:00:50]} Ng4 {[%emt 0:15:31]} 10. Re2 {[%emt 0:05:01]} d5 {[%emt 0:01:25]} 11. exd5 {[%emt 0:01:05]} Bxd5 {[%emt 0:00:35]} 12. Qc2 {[%emt 0:08:40]} f5 {[%emt 0:01:55]} 13. h3 {[%emt 0:27:55]} Bxc4 {[%emt 0:07:23]} 14. Nxc4 {[%emt 0:19:22]} e4 {[%emt 0:03:57]} 15. dxe4 {[%emt 0:02:04]} (15. Ne1 {was the most solid choice.}) 15... Nxf2 {[%emt 0:19:50] This forcing line heads to equality.} ({Giri considered the most principled line in-depth:} 15... fxe4 {but decided against it due to} 16. hxg4 ({After the game, he showed an amazing line that both players overlooked:} 16. Bg5 exf3 17. Bxd8 fxe2 18. Bh4 $4 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;Blunder;persistent;true]} ({Better is} 18. hxg4 Rxf2 19. Re1 Rf1+ 20. Kh2 Rxe1 21. Bh4 Rf1 22. Qxe2 Raf8 {when White may have some attacking potential.}) 18... Rxf2 19. Bxf2 Bxf2+ 20. Kh1 Re8 21. hxg4 Bg3 $1 {[%c_effect g3;square;g3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] and Black wins.}) 16... exf3 17. Re4 {when he stated: \"I don't buy this as an advantage for Black.\"}) 16. exf5 {[%emt 0:02:13]} Qd1+ {[%emt 0:01:21]} 17. Kh2 {[%emt 0:01:25]} Qxc2 {[%emt 0:01:10]} 18. Rxc2 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rxf5 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 19. Be3 {[%emt 0:00:24]} Ne4 {[%emt 0:02:25]} 20. Bxc5 {[%emt 0:01:56]} Rxc5 {[%emt 0:00:57]} 21. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:01:20]} 22. a4 {[%emt 0:01:12]} b5 {[%emt 0:08:07]} 23. axb5 {[%emt 0:01:03]} Rxb5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 24. Re6 {[%emt 0:06:56]} Nd8 {[%emt 0:00:39]} 25. Re5 {[%emt 0:00:49]} Rxb3 {[%emt 0:00:18]} 26. Nxa5 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Rb6 {[%emt 0:03:59]} 27. Nc4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Rc6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 28. Na5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rb6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 29. Nc4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rc6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 30. Na5 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Rb6 {[%emt 0:00:32]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Position if 15.Qg7"] [Site "?"] [Date "????.??.??"] [Round "?"] [White "So"] [Black "Vachier-Lagrave"] [Result "*"] [SetUp "1"] [FEN "r3k2r/1p3pQp/pqnpbnp1/4p3/4P3/P1NB1PN1/1PP3PP/R3K2R b KQkq - 0 15"] [PlyCount "5"] 15... Ke7 {not only saves both pieces but creates a threat of its own.} 16. O-O-O $4 {[%c_effect c1;square;c1;type;Blunder;persistent;true]} Qe3+ 17. Kb1 Rag8 {and it's Black who wins material.} * [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "St. Louis, USA"] [Date "2023.11.23"] [Round "3"] [White "Rapport, Richard"] [Black "Firouzja, Alireza"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C42"] [WhiteElo "2748"] [BlackElo "2777"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "70"] [Beauty "6393864165907"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nxe5 d6 4. Nf3 Nxe4 5. Nc3 {This simple move is one of my favorite lines against the Petroff. White's play isn't very difficult and although he doesn't have an objective advantage, I can say that nothing gives him an advantage against this solid defense anywway.} Nxc3 6. dxc3 Be7 7. Bf4 O-O 8. Qd2 Nd7 9. O-O-O Nb6 $6 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] A rare move, never played by a GM before. The b6-square seems a little strange for the knight, as it doesn't have a very large range of action.} (9... Nc5 {is played in the overwhelming majority of games.}) 10. Bd3 (10. Kb1 {The classical prophylactic move is also possible, following the principle \"whenever in doubt, play Kb1\".}) 10... d5 (10... Be6 {has been played before, but White has the initiative after} 11. h4) 11. h4 c5 {Big complications start from now on. Instinctively we can see that the position is very promising for White, with several attacking possibilities against the black king. The central theme of this game is \"Candidate Moves\", the term created by GM and renowned author Alexander Kotov and which is so debated to this day. Both sides will have plenty of options on almost every move during the middlegame.} 12. Ng5 {A tempting attacking move, but possibly not the best. I'll briefly mention other ideas:} (12. Kb1 {is always there for us.}) (12. Bg5 $5 {[%c_effect g5;square;g5;type;Interesting;persistent;true] using the g5-square for another piece.} f6 13. Bf4 {It can be argued that the move f7-f6 undermines Black's position.}) (12. Be5 $5 {[%c_effect e5;square;e5;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} f6 13. Bg3 {is a slightly improved version for White of the same idea.}) (12. h5 {is the machine's favorite move and a difficult one for a human being, since we want to use the pawn on h4 as support for a piece on g5. But here it's not a question of arguing with the computer, but of learning from it.} Bf6 (12... Bg4 13. Rde1 {with the idea of Ne5 and, if Black captures on f3, then the pair of bishops and the g-file give White an advantage.}) 13. h6 g6 14. Be5 {followed by Qf4, with strong pressure on the kingside.}) 12... h6 13. c4 {A creative move by Rapport and one that will work well in the game, although it's not objectively enough for an advantage. As usual, there are many options.} (13. Nh7 $2 {[%c_effect h7;square;h7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] is clearly wrong.} c4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 14. Nxf8 cxd3 {with a winning advantage for Black.}) (13. Nf3 {is too slow:} c4 14. Be2 Bf5 {with a good position.}) (13. Rde1 $5 {[%c_effect e1;square;e1;type;Interesting;persistent;true]}) (13. g4 $5 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;Interesting;persistent;true]}) (13. Qe3 $5 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;Interesting;persistent;true] All these last three moves lead to a complex middlegame with chances for both sides. They show that White doesn't need to bother withdrawing the knight from g5, since its capture usually ends in mate on the h-file.}) 13... f5 $2 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (13... hxg5 $2 {[%c_effect g5;square;g5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 14. hxg5 {Black won't survive the attack on the h-file.}) (13... dxc4 $6 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 14. Bh7+ Kh8 15. Qe3 $1 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is stronger than} (15. Qxd8 Bxd8 16. Rxd8 Rxd8 17. Nxf7+ Kxh7 18. Nxd8 Nd5 {when Black holds.}) 15... Qe8 16. Be4 {with a strong attack.}) (13... Nxc4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is the right move for Black.} 14. Bxc4 (14. Qe2 {is not dangerous since White doesn't have threats.} b5 {with the advantage.} (14... Nxb2 {Even this move is possible:} 15. Kxb2 Bf6+ {with counterplay.})) 14... dxc4 15. Qe3 Qe8 16. Rde1 {Now the game peters out to a draw after} Bxg5 17. hxg5 Qxe3+ 18. Rxe3 hxg5 19. Bd6 Rd8 20. Bc7 Rf8 21. Bd6 {with a move repetition.}) 14. Qe3 {This leads to a big advantage, but 14.cxd5 is even better.} (14. cxd5 $1 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qxd5 (14... hxg5 15. hxg5 {leads to the typical attack on the h-file.}) (14... c4 15. Be2 c3 16. Qe3 $1 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} cxb2+ 17. Kb1 {with a much better position for White. His king is safe behind Black's pawn.}) 15. Qe2 Bf6 16. b3 $1 {[%c_effect b3;square;b3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Preparing Bc4. White is winning.}) 14... Bf6 $1 {[%c_effect f6;square;f6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Firouzja fights with all his creativity in an attempt to save the game.} (14... hxg5 15. hxg5 {is winning.}) (14... d4 {doesn't help:} 15. Qg3) 15. Ne6 (15. cxd5 {no longer works so well:} Qxd5 16. b3 c4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The queen is not well-placed on e3 and if} 17. Bxc4 Nxc4 {Black is fine.}) 15... Bxb2+ $1 {[%c_effect b2;square;b2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is the idea.} 16. Kb1 $1 {[%c_effect b1;square;b1;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (16. Kxb2 $2 {[%c_effect b2;square;b2;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} Qf6+ {regains the knight.}) 16... Bd4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The best chance.} (16... Qf6 {doesn't work:} 17. Nxf8 Na4 {Other moves are insufficient as well:} (17... Bd4 18. Qe8 Qxf8 19. Qxf8+ Kxf8 20. cxd5 {with a winning position.}) (17... dxc4 18. Qe8 Qxf8 19. Qxf8+ Kxf8 20. Kxb2 cxd3 21. Rxd3 {White remains an exchange up.}) 18. Qe8 $1 {[%c_effect e8;square;e8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Nc3+ 19. Kxb2 Nxd1+ 20. Kc1 {Black's counterplay is over.}) 17. Nxd4 Re8 (17... cxd4 {is also much better for White after} 18. Qxd4 Be6 19. c5 Nc4 20. Rhe1) 18. Bc7 $2 {[%c_effect c7;square;c7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This move leads to an endgame and wastes all of White's advantage.} (18. Qg3 cxd4 19. Be5 $1 {[%c_effect e5;square;e5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (19. Bxh6 $2 {[%c_effect h6;square;h6;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} Qf6 20. Bg5 Qf8 21. c5 Qxc5 22. Bf6 Qb4+ 23. Kc1 Qa3+ 24. Kb1 Qb4+ {with perpetual check.}) 19... Qe7 (19... Rxe5 20. Qxe5 dxc4 21. Be2 {The pawn on d4 cannot be defended and White wins.}) 20. Bxd4 Be6 (20... dxc4 21. Rhe1 $1 {[%c_effect e1;square;e1;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qb4+ 22. Ka1 {with a decisive attack.}) 21. Rhe1 Qf7 22. c5 {White's position is far superior and effectively winning in the hands of a skilled attacking player like Rapport.}) (18. Be5 cxd4 19. Qg3 $1 {[%c_effect g3;square;g3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] transposes.}) 18... cxd4 (18... Qd7 $2 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] is playing with fire:} 19. Bxf5 Qa4 20. Be6+ $1 {[%c_effect e6;square;e6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Bxe6 21. Nxe6 Nxc4 22. Qb3 $1 {[%c_effect b3;square;b3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] White wins material.}) 19. Bxd8 dxe3 20. Bxb6 axb6 21. cxd5 exf2 22. Rhf1 Ra4 {Activating the rook. Black has no problem achieving a draw.} 23. Rxf2 (23. g3 $2 {[%c_effect g3;square;g3;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} f4 {Now Black is even better.}) (23. c4 b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with counterplay.}) 23... Rxh4 24. Bxf5 Rb4+ 25. Ka1 (25. Kc1 Bxf5 26. Rxf5 Ra4 {also leads to a draw.}) 25... Bxf5 26. Rxf5 Rd8 27. d6 Rd7 28. a3 Rc4 29. Kb2 Rc6 30. Rfd5 Kf7 31. R5d3 Ke6 32. Re1+ Kf7 33. Red1 Ke6 34. Re1+ Kf7 35. Red1 Ke6 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.23"] [Round "3"] [White "Aronian, Levon"] [Black "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "D37"] [WhiteElo "2727"] [BlackElo "2771"] [PlyCount "64"] [Beauty "6598277726728"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. d4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 2. c4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 3. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} d5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 4. e3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Be7 {[%emt 0:01:11]} 5. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:18]} 6. cxd5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} exd5 {[%emt 0:01:20]} 7. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} b6 {[%emt 0:03:43]} 8. O-O {[%emt 0:01:06]} Ba6 $5 {[%emt 0:01:11] [%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;Interesting;persistent;true] This move has only been played on two other occasions in master-level chess, in 2020 and 1952 $1} 9. Bxa6 {[%emt 0:04:35]} Nxa6 {[%emt 0:00:04] Black's knight is temporarily stuck on the rim but White's pieces are not well-positioned to take advantage with an attack.} 10. Ne5 {[%emt 0:00:51]} Bd6 {[%emt 0:03:24]} (10... Re8 11. Nc6 Qd6 12. Nxe7+ Rxe7 {This may seem like a good idea but for White but now Black has the knight pair which is generally better than a knight/bishop pairing.}) 11. Qe2 {[%emt 0:04:44] [%c_arrow e2a6;keyPressed;none;from;e2;opacity;0.8;to;a6;persistent;false] Black's knight needs to move.} Nb8 {[%emt 0:05:55] Black doesn't mind re-routing the knight to d7 or c6 in the future.} 12. e4 {[%emt 0:03:08] White tries to crack open the center and so begins the swapping...} Nxe4 {[%emt 0:03:18]} 13. Nxd5 {[%emt 0:03:40]} Bxe5 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 14. Qxe4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} c6 $1 {[%emt 0:00:03] [%c_effect c6;square;c6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Avoiding any tricks with Nf6+ $1 or Nxb6 $1} (14... Bd6 $2 {[%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 15. Nxb6 $1 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is what happens when one player is allowed to take over the center with their powerful pieces without resistance.}) 15. dxe5 {[%emt 0:03:19]} cxd5 {[%emt 0:00:27]} 16. Qg4 {[%emt 0:00:13]} Qd7 {[%emt 0:01:06]} 17. Qxd7 {[%emt 0:06:14]} Nxd7 {[%emt 0:00:07] Black has an isolated d-pawn but since he has connected his rooks quicker than White, the activity in response should make up for the structural damage.} 18. f4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nc5 {[%emt 0:05:14]} 19. Rd1 {[%emt 0:01:35]} Rfd8 {[%emt 0:05:50]} 20. Be3 {[%emt 0:00:52]} g6 {[%emt 0:04:09]} 21. g4 {[%emt 0:00:35]} Ne6 {[%emt 0:03:35]} 22. f5 {[%emt 0:03:49] White's pawn pushes would be problematic if queens were still on the board. Here though, Black can afford to take creative liberties in defense as the king is safe $1} d4 $1 {[%emt 0:00:21] [%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 23. fxe6 {[%emt 0:08:05]} (23. Bh6 {White needs to be careful about leaving the d-pawn on the board... passed pawns of any kind can pose risks.} Nc5 24. b4 Ne4) 23... dxe3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 24. Kf1 {[%emt 0:00:03]} (24. exf7+ {This helps Black's king come to the center quicker.} Kxf7 25. Kf1 Ke6 {A draw is still the most probable result but Black's king will be further advanced.}) 24... Rd2 {[%emt 0:03:34] This effectively forces a draw. The players will enter into a symmetrical rook and pawn ending.} 25. Rxd2 {[%emt 0:00:19]} exd2 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 26. Rd1 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 27. exf7+ {[%emt 0:00:11]} Kxf7 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 28. Rxd2 {[%emt 0:00:21]} Rxe5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 29. Rd7+ {[%emt 0:01:53]} Re7 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 30. Rd2 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Re5 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 31. Rd7+ {[%emt 0:00:05]} Re7 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 32. Rd2 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Re5 {[%emt 0:00:35] One underrated skill amongst super GMs is their ability to find repetitions in endings that are simply not worth their time playing out.} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.23"] [Round "3"] [White "Vachier-Lagrave, Maxime"] [Black "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C93"] [WhiteElo "2734"] [BlackElo "2795"] [PlyCount "83"] [Beauty "6048387698696"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 3. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} a6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 4. Ba4 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 5. O-O {[%emt 0:00:04]} Be7 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 6. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:55]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 7. Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 8. c3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:06]} 9. h3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Bb7 {[%emt 0:00:15]} 10. d4 {[%emt 0:00:13]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 11. Ng5 {[%emt 0:03:32]} Rf8 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 12. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 13. a3 {[%emt 0:07:54]} h6 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 14. Nbd2 {[%emt 0:01:36]} Bf8 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 15. Bc2 {[%emt 0:01:40]} Nb8 {[%emt 0:00:36]} 16. b3 {[%emt 0:00:32]} Nbd7 {[%emt 0:00:38]} 17. Bb2 {[%emt 0:00:12]} g6 {[%emt 0:01:33]} 18. Bd3 {[%emt 0:03:57]} Bg7 {[%emt 0:14:09]} 19. a4 {[%emt 0:10:47]} bxa4 {[%emt 0:03:59]} 20. Rxa4 {[%emt 0:04:13]} d5 {[%emt 0:01:51]} 21. dxe5 {[%emt 0:17:36]} Nxe4 {[%emt 0:02:43]} 22. Nxe4 {[%emt 0:00:22]} dxe4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 23. Bxe4 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Bxe4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 24. Raxe4 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Nxe5 $3 {[%emt 0:09:25] [%c_effect e5;square;e5;type;Brilliant;persistent;true] Le-Firouzja were the first two players to enter into this line and they drew in 44 moves.} 25. Rxe5 {[%emt 0:04:05]} (25. Nxe5 {No matter which way White spins things, Black can equalize.} Qxd1 $1 {[%c_effect d1;square;d1;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 26. Rxd1 Rxe5 27. Rxe5 Bxe5 28. Rd5 Bg7 {It could be argued that White has a slight edge due to Black's two isolated pawns, but on the flip side, Black's bishop is better than White's.}) (25. Nd4 {This is White's best move in terms of keeping complexity on the board and was seen in Qun-Nogerbek, 2023.} Qd7 26. Ba3) 25... Bxe5 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 26. Qxd8 $1 {[%emt 0:00:09] [%c_effect d8;square;d8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Raxd8 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 27. Rxe5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rxe5 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 28. Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:18] While the knight and bishop often outplay the rook in endings such as this, Black's rook is already on an open file and is the most active piece on the board.} Rd1+ {[%emt 0:01:04]} 29. Kh2 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rd2 {[%emt 0:00:29] [%c_highlight b2;keyPressed;none;opacity;0.8;square;b2;persistent;false,f2;keyPressed;none;opacity;0.8;square;f2;persistent;false] Winning a pawn back.} 30. Ba3 {[%emt 0:00:44]} Rxf2 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 31. Bc5 {[%emt 0:05:07]} Rc2 {[%emt 0:09:36]} 32. Bd4 {[%emt 0:00:41]} c5 $1 {[%emt 0:00:50] [%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Black has no interest in messing around against two minor pieces so forcing further liquidation with c5.} 33. Bxc5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rxc3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 34. b4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} g5 {[%emt 0:07:28]} 35. Bb6 {[%emt 0:23:04]} f5 {[%emt 0:02:08]} 36. Ba5 {[%emt 0:01:04]} Rc2 {[%emt 0:10:04]} 37. Nd7 {[%emt 0:02:42]} f4 {[%emt 0:00:32] Threatening f3 $1} 38. Kg1 {[%emt 0:00:17]} (38. Nc5 $2 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Mistake;persistent;true] If White gets greedy, Black will be able to punish.} f3 39. Kg1 Rxg2+ {Black's pawns are enough to convert now.}) 38... Rc1+ {[%emt 0:16:58]} 39. Kf2 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rc2+ {[%emt 0:00:03]} 40. Kg1 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Rc1+ {[%emt 0:00:04]} 41. Kf2 {[%emt 0:30:05]} Rc2+ {[%emt 0:30:02]} 42. Kg1 {[%emt 0:00:41] White has no other way to make progress. A snug drawing line found by Caruana.} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.24"] [Round "4"] [White "Firouzja, Alireza"] [Black "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "D02"] [WhiteElo "2777"] [BlackElo "2745"] [PlyCount "93"] [Beauty "5775254618197"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. d4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} d5 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 3. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:37]} 4. e3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:20]} 5. Nbd2 {[%emt 0:00:21]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 6. c3 {[%emt 0:00:51]} cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 7. exd4 {[%emt 0:00:46]} Nh5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 8. Be3 {[%emt 0:04:09]} Bd6 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 9. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:02:06]} 10. O-O {[%emt 0:10:00]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:00:24]} 11. Bd3 {[%emt 0:07:33]} O-O {[%emt 0:02:32]} 12. Ng5 {[%emt 0:06:11]} h6 {[%emt 0:13:36]} 13. Ngf3 {[%emt 0:01:11]} Nce7 {[%emt 0:12:19]} 14. Re1 {[%emt 0:05:48]} Bd7 {[%emt 0:01:47]} 15. Nf1 {[%emt 0:06:54]} Rc8 {[%emt 0:11:38]} 16. a4 {[%emt 0:17:28]} f6 {[%emt 0:10:37]} 17. Qb3 {[%emt 0:03:40]} Bc6 {[%emt 0:06:09]} 18. Bd2 {[%emt 0:05:14]} Qd7 {[%emt 0:09:41]} 19. h4 {[%emt 0:02:47]} Rce8 {[%emt 0:06:36]} 20. h5 {[%emt 0:01:40]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 21. Bxf4 {[%emt 0:00:37]} Bxf4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 22. Bb1 {[%emt 0:01:53]} Bc7 {[%emt 0:09:40]} 23. Qc2 {[%emt 0:00:35]} Kf7 {[%emt 0:01:36]} 24. Ng3 {[%emt 0:04:59]} (24. b4 $5 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} a6 25. Nh4) 24... Rg8 {[%emt 0:01:56]} 25. b3 {[%emt 0:09:50]} (25. Qh7 $1 {[%c_effect h7;square;h7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the opportunity that Firouzja was looking for.} f5 {He considered this variation but missed the key follow-up:} 26. Bxf5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} exf5 27. Nxf5 Nxf5 (27... Qxf5 28. Rxe7+) 28. Qg6+ Kf8 29. Rxe8+ Qxe8 30. Qxf5+ Qf7 31. Qc8+ Be8 32. Re1 g5 33. Rxe8+ Qxe8 34. Qxc7 Qxh5 35. Qxb7 {with a clear edge for White due to his active pieces and Black's open king.}) 25... g6 {[%emt 0:02:26]} 26. Nh4 {[%emt 0:00:29]} f5 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 27. Nf3 {[%emt 0:02:36]} gxh5 {[%emt 0:00:42]} 28. Nxh5 {[%emt 0:00:45]} Rg4 {[%emt 0:02:19]} 29. Qd2 {[%emt 0:04:26]} Reg8 {[%emt 0:01:07]} 30. Qxh6 {[%emt 0:00:10] The players dive into complications.} Rxg2+ {[%emt 0:00:40]} 31. Kf1 {[%emt 0:00:02]} R2g6 {[%emt 0:01:22]} 32. Qh7+ {[%emt 0:00:38]} Kf8 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 33. Bd3 {[%emt 0:01:23]} (33. Nh4 $1 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] was another missed opportunity for White. After} Bb5+ {Firouzja overlooked} 34. c4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} ({The Iranian-French grandmaster feared:} 34. axb5 Qxb5+ 35. c4 Rg1+ 36. Ke2 Rxe1+ 37. Kxe1 Qxb3 {with dangerous threats for Black}) 34... Rg1+ 35. Ke2 Rxe1+ 36. Kxe1 dxc4 37. Qh6+ Kf7 38. Qf6+ Ke8 39. axb5 cxb3 40. Rxa7 Qxb5 41. Ng7+) 33... Nc8 {[%emt 0:01:29]} 34. Qxd7 {[%emt 0:00:20]} Bxd7 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 35. Ne5 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Bxe5 {[%emt 0:01:16]} 36. dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Rh8 {[%emt 0:01:31]} 37. Nf6 {[%emt 0:01:55]} Bc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 38. Ke2 {[%emt 0:00:20]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 39. Rh1 {[%emt 0:01:38]} Rgh6 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 40. Rxh6 {[%emt 0:00:23]} Rxh6 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 41. f4 {[%emt 0:03:24]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:10:56]} 42. Rf1 {[%emt 0:00:57]} Rh4 {[%emt 0:00:13]} 43. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Rh3+ {[%emt 0:00:18]} 44. Kd4 {[%emt 0:01:24]} Rh4 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 45. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Rh3+ {[%emt 0:00:15]} 46. Kd4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Rh4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} (46... Rh4 47. Ke3) 47. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.24"] [Round "4"] [White "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Black "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "E46"] [WhiteElo "2771"] [BlackElo "2795"] [PlyCount "127"] [Beauty "4950889367615"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. d4 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 2. c4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 3. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bb4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 4. e3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:29]} 5. Bd2 {[%emt 0:00:09]} d5 {[%emt 0:01:22]} 6. a3 {[%emt 0:00:32]} Be7 {[%emt 0:00:53]} 7. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Nbd7 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 8. Qc2 {[%emt 0:01:04]} dxc4 {[%emt 0:09:43]} 9. Bxc4 {[%emt 0:00:38]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 10. O-O {[%emt 0:01:02]} cxd4 {[%emt 0:03:40]} 11. exd4 {[%emt 0:00:24]} Nb6 {[%emt 0:02:10]} 12. Ba2 {[%emt 0:04:50]} Bd7 {[%emt 0:00:49]} 13. Ne5 {[%emt 0:00:41]} Rc8 {[%emt 0:05:07]} 14. Qd3 {[%emt 0:03:46]} Na4 {[%emt 0:07:16]} 15. Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Nxc3 {[%emt 0:10:51]} 16. bxc3 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Bc6 {[%emt 0:05:48]} 17. Rfe1 {[%emt 0:00:52]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 18. Nxf7 $5 {[%emt 0:10:09] [%c_effect f7;square;f7;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Nepomniachtchi heads for an imbalanced game with two hanging center pawns and a rook vs. a bishop and knight.} Rxf7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 19. Bxe6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:05:19]} 20. c4 {[%emt 0:01:15]} Bd7 {[%emt 0:03:41]} 21. Bxf7+ {[%emt 0:00:10]} Kxf7 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 22. Bb4 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Bf8 {[%emt 0:00:52]} 23. d5 {[%emt 0:01:01]} ({White could make gradual inroads with} 23. h3 Qb6 24. Bxf8 Kxf8 25. Rab1 Qa6 26. Rb4 b6 27. a4) 23... Qc7 {[%emt 0:08:14]} 24. Rac1 {[%emt 0:09:24]} Qf4 {[%emt 0:11:52]} 25. Bxf8 {[%emt 0:01:29]} Kxf8 {[%emt 0:00:14]} 26. c5 {[%emt 0:01:02] As impressive as White's center pawns appear, they soon become targets.} Ng4 {[%emt 0:04:52]} 27. Qg3 {[%emt 0:01:48]} Qxg3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 28. hxg3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 29. Re5 {[%emt 0:01:29]} a6 {[%emt 0:08:40]} 30. f3 {[%emt 0:05:42]} Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 31. g4 {[%emt 0:00:32]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:04:57]} 32. Rf5+ {[%emt 0:00:53]} Kg8 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 33. c6 {[%emt 0:04:20]} bxc6 {[%emt 0:00:22]} 34. dxc6 {[%emt 0:01:14]} Rxc6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 35. Rd1 {[%emt 0:01:45]} h6 {[%emt 0:03:10]} 36. Rxb5 {[%emt 0:01:56]} axb5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 37. Rxd7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rc3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 38. Ra7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rb3 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 39. Ra5 {[%emt 0:00:42]} b4 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 40. axb4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rxb4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 41. g5 {[%emt 0:30:04]} hxg5 {[%emt 0:30:03]} 42. Rxg5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Kf7 {[%emt 0:00:15]} 43. Kh2 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:00:36]} 44. Ra5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rh4+ {[%emt 0:00:24]} 45. Kg3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 46. f4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rb2 {[%emt 0:00:34]} 47. Kh3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Rf2 {[%emt 0:01:39]} 48. g3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} g6 {[%emt 0:01:56]} 49. Ra6+ {[%emt 0:00:08]} Kf7 {[%emt 0:00:19]} 50. Kg4 {[%emt 0:00:42]} Rb2 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 51. Ra7+ {[%emt 0:00:07]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 52. Kf3 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Rb3+ {[%emt 0:00:07]} 53. Kg2 {[%emt 0:00:08]} g5 {[%emt 0:01:26]} 54. Ra6+ {[%emt 0:00:11]} Kf7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 55. fxg5 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Rb5 {[%emt 0:00:13]} 56. g6+ {[%emt 0:00:07]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 57. Kh3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:00:18]} 58. Re6 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Ra4 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 59. g4 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:00:12]} 60. Kh4 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Rb5 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 61. Kg3 {[%emt 0:00:23]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 62. Kh4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Rb5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 63. Kg3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 64. Kh4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.24"] [Round "4"] [White "So, Wesley"] [Black "Rapport, Richard"] [Result "1-0"] [ECO "E83"] [WhiteElo "2752"] [BlackElo "2748"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "73"] [Beauty "7904887308328"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,73,25,-25,-8,-16,32,15,34,33,33,20,25,14,23,33,27,20,13,4,45,26,50,45,41,46,46,63,46,57,45,-2,0,13,20,30,65,54,103,64,69,58,134,141,133,155,128,175,189,190,198,206,132,202,188,182,184,199,198,204,252,255,287,297,304,242,270,266,270,266,270,274,290,290,294,280]} 1. c4 Nf6 2. Nc3 g6 3. e4 d6 4. d4 Bg7 5. f3 {The Saemisch System is one of the most reliable and principled options against the King's Indian. White solidifies his center and relies on the space advantage to achieve an opportunity.} O-O 6. Nge2 {This move is a good alternative to the more popular bishop moves to e3 or g5.} Nc6 {Black has many possible plans. This one, Nc6 followed by a6, Bd7, Rb8, and b5, was one of Kasparov's favorites and is used in several King's Indian lines.} 7. Be3 a6 8. Qd2 Bd7 (8... Rb8 {Many start with Rb8 right away.}) 9. Rb1 {White also has many possible plans: this opening is rich in strategic ideas. 9.g4, 9.h4, and 9.Nc1 are the most obvious paths. White's idea is to play b2-b4 and maybe also g2-g4 with a commanding pawn army.} (9. g4) (9. h4) (9. Nc1) 9... h5 $5 {[%c_effect h5;square;h5;type;Interesting;persistent;true] A recent idea. The h5-move, avoiding g4, is one of the discoveries of modern strategy, as it has been validated by engines in the most varied defenses from the King's Indian to the Sicilian Najdorf. I also briefly mention other options.} (9... b5 $6 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] is too optimistic.} 10. cxb5 axb5 11. Nxb5 {Now} Rxa2 $2 {[%c_effect a2;square;a2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] fails to} 12. Na3 {and the rook is trapped.}) (9... Rb8 10. b4 Re8 {is also recommended by the engines. They clearly have incorporated Nimzowitsch's idea of \"Mysterious Rook Moves.\"}) (9... e5 10. d5 Ne7 {is a King's Indian classic.}) 10. b4 Nh7 {A new move. It looks strange, but it's not bad. Black is getting ready to play e5 and later f5, while waiting for White to show his cards.} (10... e6 11. g3 {was played in Novikov-Shabalov, USA-ch Seniors Saint Louis 2022.}) 11. d5 {White decides to advance the center to free the d4-square for the knight.} (11. g3 {is another way of developing, but Black has interesting counterplay.} e5 (11... h4 {is also interesting.}) 12. d5 Ne7) 11... Ne5 12. Nd4 Rc8 {It's also possible to advance the c-pawn immediately.} (12... c5 $2 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This is a positional mistake:} 13. bxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} dxc5 14. Nb3 b6 15. Be2 {with a big advantage for White with the powerful center.}) (12... c6 {is possible with a double-edged position after} 13. dxc6 bxc6) 13. Be2 c5 14. dxc6 (14. bxc5 {Now Black can take with the rook with good counterplay.} Rxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 14... Bxc6 (14... Nxc6 $6 {[%c_effect c6;square;c6;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 15. Nxc6 {leads to a comfortable advantage for White. Black should not exchange his active knight.}) (14... bxc6 {is possible with balanced play. The idea is} 15. c5 a5 $1 {[%c_effect a5;square;a5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with counterplay.}) 15. Rc1 {A difficult move. So wants to protect the c4-pawn.} (15. Nxc6 {is possible, but after} Rxc6 16. c5 {Black has many interesting possibilities. The game is equal.}) 15... Bd7 16. Nd1 b5 {A pawn sacrifice that totally fits the King's Indian spirit.} 17. Nb2 {Solid play.} ({After} 17. cxb5 {Black has good compensation for the pawn:} Rxc1 18. Qxc1 axb5 19. Nxb5 Qb8 20. a4 Rc8) 17... Nxc4 $6 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] After this inaccurate move, White achieves a better position.} (17... Qc7 $1 {[%c_effect c7;square;c7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is better with equality after} 18. O-O Qb8 {It's important to keep the pawn on b5, since it takes away some of the potential of the white pieces.}) 18. Nxc4 e5 (18... bxc4 19. Bxc4 {is also better for White, since the queenside is weak.}) 19. Nb3 (19. Nxb5 $1 {[%mdl 704] [%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is enough for a clear advantage.} axb5 (19... Bxb5 20. O-O) 20. Nb6 $5 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Maybe not the best objectively but calmer than} (20. Nxd6 Rxc1+ 21. Qxc1 Bh3 $1 {[%c_effect h3;square;h3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 22. Nxf7 Rxf7 23. gxh3 Qh4+ 24. Bf2 Qxh3 {which leads to some chaotic play, although White is better.}) 20... Rxc1+ 21. Qxc1 {White has a clear positional advantage.}) 19... bxc4 20. Bxc4 Rxc4 $2 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Rapport gets carried away by the previously mentioned \"King's Indian spirit.\" He sacrifices the exchange to avoid castling, but it turns out that the compensation is not enough.} (20... Bb5 {is better with a slight advantage for White after} 21. Bxb5 Rxc1+ 22. Nxc1 axb5) 21. Rxc4 Bb5 22. Rc1 d5 {More sacrifices are necessary in an attempt to justify the previous play.} (22... f5 {doesn't work:} 23. a4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Bxa4 24. Qa2 {with a winning advantage.}) 23. Qxd5 (23. exd5 {Here probably Rapport's idea is to continue sacrificing pawns with} e4 {Despite the machine's pessimistic assessment, it's clear the Black has practical chances.}) 23... Qh4+ 24. g3 Qf6 (24... Qh3 {is probably more stubborn. The idea is} 25. Kf2 (25. Rc2 {is the computer's favorite.}) 25... g5 {with the idea of playing g4 and creating something recalling an attack. It shouldn't work, to be honest.}) 25. Kf2 Rd8 26. Qb7 Rd3 27. Qb6 $1 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Now it's over. Everything is defended, and the rook is ready to go to d1. White has a decisive material advantage.} Qxb6 (27... Qe7 28. Rhd1 {wins easily.}) 28. Bxb6 Ng5 29. h4 Rxf3+ (29... Nxf3 30. Rhd1) 30. Kg2 Rxb3 31. axb3 Nxe4 32. Rhe1 Nd2 33. Rc8+ Kh7 34. Rc7 Kg8 35. Rc8+ Kh7 36. Rc7 Kg8 37. Re3 1-0 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.25"] [Round "5"] [White "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Black "So, Wesley"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C67"] [WhiteElo "2745"] [BlackElo "2752"] [Annotator "3700"] [PlyCount "162"] [Beauty "4195914614278"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,162,19,31,31,38,21,5,16,8,38,7,48,66,73,73,66,67,65,65,60,48,79,65,73,70,61,61,47,47,70,58,58,42,45,32,19,26,19,30,37,28,37,28,38,25,29,25,27,26,56,42,44,45,61,48,46,41,46,46,46,45,45,76,60,59,58,79,65,82,97,91,99,99,110,101,89,89,81,87,81,85,85,90,73,73,101,73,61,62,62,48,39,32,75,69,69,69,78,62,62,62,62,62,72,84,68,69,66,69,67,59,66,61,66,61,64,61,61,67,66,54,54,53,57,54,55,54,53,57,57,50,57,42,51,54,54,54,54,54,54,50,54,54,54,54,60,61,68,60,68,60,74,77,77,68,75,75,75,75,75,70,68,68,68]} 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:15]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 3. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:24]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:45]} 4. O-O {[%emt 0:00:10]} Nxe4 {[%emt 0:00:31]} 5. d4 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 6. Bxc6 {[%emt 0:00:10]} dxc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 7. dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nf5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 8. Qxd8+ {[%emt 0:00:09]} Kxd8 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 9. h3 {[%emt 0:00:49]} Ke8 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 10. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} b6 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 11. Rd1 {[%emt 0:00:54]} Bb4 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 12. Ne2 {[%emt 0:03:19]} Bb7 {[%emt 0:00:12]} 13. Ned4 {[%emt 0:11:14]} Nxd4 {[%emt 0:01:15]} 14. Nxd4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rg8 {[%emt 0:00:24]} 15. Bf4 {[%emt 0:08:47]} g5 {[%emt 0:01:34]} 16. Bg3 {[%emt 0:00:24]} Rd8 {[%emt 0:07:26]} 17. e6 {[%emt 0:07:43]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:02:04]} 18. c3 {[%emt 0:25:14]} Bxd4 {[%emt 0:00:14]} 19. exf7+ {[%emt 0:00:05]} Kxf7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 20. cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Rd7 {[%emt 0:04:00]} 21. Be5 {[%emt 0:04:03]} h5 {[%emt 0:05:18]} 22. Re1 {[%emt 0:02:01]} Re8 {[%emt 0:10:38]} 23. Re3 {[%emt 0:04:45]} {[%tqu "En","","","","c6c5","So decides to remove his doubled c-pawns by throwing one away. The benefit of this move is that the light-square bishop is liberated.",10]} c5 $5 {[%emt 0:21:04][%mdl 672] So decides to remove his doubled c-pawns by throwing one away. The benefit of this move is that the light-square bishop is liberated.} 24. dxc5 {[%emt 0:00:16]} Kg6 $1 {[%emt 0:01:37]} (24... bxc5 $6 {[%csl Gc5,Gc7] [%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] Black will lose the c5-pawn to pressure anyway and might as well leave it on b6.} 25. Rc1 Rde7 26. Rxc5 {[%csl Ga7,Gc7] Now White is up by a pawn, AND Black's queenside pawn structure is weak.}) 25. Rc1 {[%emt 0:09:07][%CAl Rc1c8][%mdl 32]} Bd5 {[%emt 0:02:07][%CAl Rd5a2]} 26. a3 {[%emt 0:04:44]} g4 {[%emt 0:15:57] A multipurpose move. Black hopes to trade pawns and open up the kingside.} 27. cxb6 {[%emt 0:05:09]} cxb6 {[%emt 0:00:39]} (27... axb6 $5 {[%mdl 704] [%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Forcing lines here lead to an interesting opposite-colored bishop endgame where Black appears to be lost but may be more resilient on further inspection.} 28. hxg4 hxg4 29. Rxc7 Rxc7 30. Bxc7 {[%csl Rc7,Rd5]} Rxe3 31. fxe3 b5 {Generally the rule in opposite-colored bishop endings is that two extra pawns are enough to win the game, although there are so many exceptions that this can barely be considered a rule.} 32. g3 Kf5 33. Kf2 $11 {The reality here is that this is a two-result game, and Black is very much groveling for a draw, making it an unappealing option even if it is holdable.}) 28. Kh2 {[%emt 0:01:07]} Kf5 {[%emt 0:14:26]} 29. Bd4 {[%emt 0:00:55]} Re4 {[%emt 0:02:55]} 30. Rxe4 $1 {[%emt 0:03:12] [%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kxe4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 31. Be3 {[%emt 0:02:59] White tries his luck with just one extra pawn. The open c-file is the only real drawcard left in terms of procuring a decisive result.} Be6 {[%emt 0:00:52]} 32. hxg4 $2 {[%emt 0:01:49] [%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Keeping pawns on the board is White's best chance of winning this game. With this pawn trade, So's job has become far easier.} (32. h4 $1 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Dominguez needs to be in this for the long haul, and a weakness on h5 and an open-ended f3-pawn break are two great ways to do this.}) 32... hxg4 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 33. Kg3 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Rd3 {[%emt 0:02:22]} 34. Rc7 {[%emt 0:01:11]} Rb3 {[%emt 0:00:51]} 35. Rxa7 {[%emt 0:00:51]} Rxb2 {[%emt 0:00:04] Like in rook endings, once pawns start flying off the board, a draw is the most likely result.} 36. Ra6 {[%emt 0:03:31]} Rb3 {[%emt 0:02:26]} 37. Kh4 {[%emt 0:00:58]} Bc8 {[%emt 0:03:34]} 38. Ra8 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Be6 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 39. Ra6 {[%emt 0:01:19]} Bc8 {[%emt 0:00:18]} 40. Ra8 {[%emt 0:00:38]} Be6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 41. a4 {[%emt 0:05:25]} Rb4 {[%emt 0:05:44]} 42. Kg5 {[%emt 0:02:52]} Kd5 {[%emt 0:06:50]} 43. g3 {[%emt 0:04:47]} Bd7 {[%emt 0:04:20]} 44. Ra7 {[%emt 0:03:52]} Ke6 $11 {[%emt 0:05:48] White cannot find a way to win an extra pawn and must keep trying on the kingside.} 45. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:53]} Rxa4 {[%emt 0:00:55]} 46. Rb7 {[%emt 0:03:42]} Ke7 {[%emt 0:00:15]} 47. Rxb6 {[%emt 0:00:13]} Ra5+ {[%emt 0:00:04]} 48. Kg6 {[%emt 0:00:42]} Bf5+ {[%emt 0:03:22]} 49. Kg7 {[%emt 0:00:34]} Be4 {[%emt 0:00:38]} 50. Bd6+ {[%emt 0:01:26]} Kd7 {[%emt 0:00:18]} 51. Bb4 {[%emt 0:00:36]} Rf5 {[%emt 0:02:23]} 52. Rd6+ {[%emt 0:00:10]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 53. Rd4 {[%emt 0:00:23]} Bf3 {[%emt 0:00:47] Black has set up a fool-proof fortress with the bishop on f3. Notice that White doesn't even really have the option to sacrifice the rook for the bishop.} 54. Kg6 {[%emt 0:00:46]} Rd5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 55. Rf4 {[%emt 0:00:51]} Kc6 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 56. Kf6 {[%emt 0:02:13]} Bd1 {[%emt 0:00:37]} 57. Kg6 {[%emt 0:03:54]} Bc2+ {[%emt 0:00:43]} 58. Kh6 {[%emt 0:00:26]} Bd1 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 59. Ba3 {[%emt 0:00:29]} Kd7 {[%emt 0:01:24]} 60. Re4 {[%emt 0:00:57]} Bf3 {[%emt 0:00:31]} 61. Re7+ {[%emt 0:00:31]} Kc6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 62. Bc1 {[%emt 0:00:33]} Kd6 {[%emt 0:01:15]} 63. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:18]} Kc5 {[%emt 0:00:58]} 64. Re8 {[%emt 0:00:28]} Kc4 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 65. Bg5 {[%emt 0:00:40] Sometimes accepting a draw when you have been up by a pawn for so long is difficult to do in chess. Dominguez is right to continue trying in this case, however, just in case So slips.} Kd4 {[%emt 0:02:16]} 66. Kh5 {[%emt 0:00:34]} Re5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 67. Rd8+ {[%emt 0:00:40]} Rd5 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 68. Rf8 {[%emt 0:00:14]} Kd3 {[%emt 0:01:18]} 69. Re8 {[%emt 0:00:42]} Ra5 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 70. Re3+ {[%emt 0:00:41]} Kd4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 71. Kh4 {[%emt 0:01:38]} Ra2 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 72. Re7 {[%emt 0:00:36] Funnily, it's now White that has to be a little careful. The f2-pawn is the only pawn on the board undefended... or is it $2} Kd3 {[%emt 0:00:24]} (72... Rxf2 $4 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;Blunder;persistent;true] This would have made for a great early Christmas present for Dominguez.} 73. Be3+ $1 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Kd3 74. Bxf2 {Oops.}) 73. Be3 {[%emt 0:00:26]} Ke2 {[%emt 0:00:35]} 74. Re5 {[%emt 0:00:56]} Kf1 {[%emt 0:00:49]} 75. Kg5 {[%emt 0:01:14]} Kg2 {[%emt 0:00:26]} 76. Rc5 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Ra8 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 77. Re5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rg8+ {[%emt 0:00:04]} 78. Kf4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Rf8+ {[%emt 0:00:01]} 79. Kg5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Rg8+ {[%emt 0:00:02]} 80. Kf4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rf8+ {[%emt 0:00:02]} 81. Kg5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rg8+ {[%emt 0:00:34] Finally, the players repeat moves, and a draw is confirmed. Dominguez has yet to break the draw curse in St. Louis $1} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.25"] [Round "5"] [White "Vachier-Lagrave, Maxime"] [Black "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C78"] [WhiteElo "2734"] [BlackElo "2771"] [PlyCount "77"] [Beauty "6185155559943"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 3. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} a6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 4. Ba4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 5. O-O {[%emt 0:00:03]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 6. c3 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Ba7 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 7. d4 {[%emt 0:04:01]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 8. Bb3 {[%emt 0:04:25]} d6 $1 {[%emt 0:00:26] [%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This trendy line has been popular for the last 15 years and is actually a temporary pawn sacrifice.} 9. dxe5 {[%emt 0:22:48]} Nxe5 {[%emt 0:01:06]} 10. Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:11]} dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 11. Qxd8+ {[%emt 0:00:07]} (11. Nd2 {The only precise way to dodge a queen trade is 11.Nd2, which creates developmental problems.}) 11... Kxd8 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 12. Bxf7 {[%emt 0:04:20]} (12. Nd2 {Vachier-Lagrave considered this move order but said in his post-match interview that he wasn't sure if he wasn't worse now after} Bb7 13. Nf3 Nxe4 14. Nxe5 Ke7 15. Nxf7 $6 {[%c_effect f7;square;f7;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] This wouldn't be ideal due to} Rhf8 {[%c_arrow f8f2;keyPressed;none;from;f8;opacity;0.8;to;f2;persistent;false]}) 12... Rf8 {[%emt 0:00:18] [%c_arrow f8f2;keyPressed;none;from;f8;opacity;0.8;to;f2;persistent;false] Black begins indirectly pressuring the f2-pawn, which is a relevant note in the coming moves.} 13. Bd5 {[%emt 0:02:51]} Nxd5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 14. exd5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Bb7 {[%emt 0:00:03] Suddenly, White cannot defend the d5-pawn without losing the f2-pawn.} 15. Be3 {[%emt 0:02:13] Black currently has the bishop pair which can often be a death sentence at the super-GM level. Not wanting to battle against this, Vachier-Lagrave opts to trade a pair of bishops.} Bxe3 {[%emt 0:01:20]} 16. fxe3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rxf1+ {[%emt 0:00:08]} 17. Kxf1 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Bxd5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 18. Nd2 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Ke7 {[%emt 0:03:58]} 19. e4 {[%emt 0:00:42]} Be6 {[%emt 0:01:02]} 20. Ke2 {[%emt 0:02:56] The engine spouts zeros across the board here, although Black's bishop still has the potential to carry if White misplays.} a5 {[%emt 0:00:46]} 21. a4 {[%emt 0:19:13] White attempts to split Black's pawn structure.} c6 {[%emt 0:05:43]} (21... bxa4 22. Rxa4 Bd7 23. Ra3 {While this is completely playable for Black, it is not recommended as you have to defend three isolated pawns $1}) 22. axb5 {[%emt 0:01:48]} cxb5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 23. Ke3 {[%emt 0:06:57]} a4 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 24. Nf3 {[%emt 0:03:09]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:00:41]} 25. Rf1 {[%emt 0:02:08]} Bc4 {[%emt 0:02:29]} 26. Rf2 {[%emt 0:00:03]} a3 {[%emt 0:07:42] Black allows discovered checks as none have any venom.} 27. bxa3 {[%emt 0:00:18]} (27. Ne1+ {This is the best check White has, and it is simply underwhelming.} Ke6 28. bxa3 Rxa3 {Black may even have an edge here after} 29. Kd2) 27... Rxa3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 28. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Ra2+ {[%emt 0:10:13]} 29. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Ra3 {[%emt 0:05:08]} (29... Rxf2 30. Kxf2 {The main reason that Black wouldn't go for this is because there is no clear way for the king to enter the position. White's knight can also get a little tricky now.}) 30. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Ke6 {[%emt 0:06:30]} 31. Ng5+ {[%emt 0:00:18]} Kd6 {[%emt 0:01:12]} 32. Nxh7 {[%emt 0:00:11] Don't be fooled by White winning a pawn here. Black is still very much in control due to the pressure on the c3-pawn.} Ra2+ {[%emt 0:03:55]} 33. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:18]} Ra3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 34. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:07]} (34. Rc2 $2 {[%c_effect c2;square;c2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Any attempt to defend with the rook is met with} b4 $1 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 35. Kd2 b3 {Black's passed pawn has just become one of the most powerful pieces on the board.} 36. Rb2 Ra2 37. Kc1 Ra1+ 38. Rb1 Ra3 {Black is playing for a win.}) 34... Kc5 {[%emt 0:02:32]} 35. Ng5 {[%emt 0:00:22]} Ra2+ {[%emt 0:00:13]} 36. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Ra3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 37. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Ra2+ {[%emt 0:01:33]} 38. Ke3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Ra3 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 39. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:37] A fine piece of preparation by Nepomniachtchi allows him to easily hold against Vachier-Lagrave.} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.25"] [Round "5"] [White "Aronian, Levon"] [Black "Firouzja, Alireza"] [Result "1-0"] [ECO "E21"] [WhiteElo "2727"] [BlackElo "2777"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "133"] [Beauty "5978997136904"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,133,39,17,27,6,6,10,26,26,26,13,15,-6,-6,-6,-3,-3,19,-9,-12,-12,-4,-3,12,11,24,24,43,44,49,38,44,30,30,50,41,41,55,42,42,72,76,46,42,54,54,18,76,62,62,50,134,64,64,47,74,74,65,65,92,95,118,114,113,120,118,84,77,78,85,76,76,70,76,55,55,55,59,59,60,54,101,99,92,87,87,89,93,87,87,92,92,87,87,87,90,68,116,83,115,98,127,126,121,129,121,93,102,105,88,70,67,58,63,62,62,70,181,164,164,133,125,170,314,172,178,178,387,397,431,362,346,306,1402,1536]} 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Nf3 b6 5. Qb3 a5 (5... c5 {is the most popular move. A long time ago I played an interesting game with big complications right at the opening:} 6. a3 Ba5 7. Bg5 h6 8. Bh4 g5 9. Bg3 g4 10. Nd2 cxd4 11. Nb5 Ne4 12. O-O-O Bxd2+ 13. Rxd2 Nxd2 14. Kxd2 O-O {with a good position for Black in Disconzi da Silva-Leitao, BRA-ch Sao Paulo 2001.}) 6. g3 Bb7 7. Bg2 d6 (7... O-O {A recent game followed:} 8. O-O Bxc3 9. Qxc3 d6 10. b3 Nbd7 11. Rd1 Qe7 {with a typical middlegame position from the Queen's Indian Defense. Mamedyarov-Tabatabaei, Chessable Masters rapid 2023.}) 8. O-O Nbd7 {It's no surprise that this move is a novelty. Players with Black are often terrified at the prospect of losing the bishop on b4 and capturing the knight on c3 as soon as it's no longer pinned.} (8... Bxc3 9. Qxc3 Nbd7 {with a typical position. White has the pair of bishops, and this should be enough for a slight advantage.}) 9. Qc2 {Aronian decides not to try to exploit the possible defects of Black's previous move. This can be tried with 9.Nb5 or 9.Na4; the latter seems to be the most promising.} (9. Nb5 {is not too dangerous:} c6 (9... d5 $2 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 10. Bf4) 10. a3 (10. Nh4 $5 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] is a curious computer suggestion.}) 10... cxb5 11. axb4 (11. cxb5 Bc5 12. dxc5 Nxc5 {Black follows up with a5-a4, and the knight is strong on c5.}) 11... bxc4 (11... a4 {is also good.}) 12. Qxc4 O-O {with a good position.}) (9. Na4 $5 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} d5 {Forced, otherwise the bishop is lost.} 10. Ne5 (10. c5 {is possible, but Black has a playable position after} bxc5 11. Nxc5 Bxc5 12. Qxb7 Bd6) 10... O-O 11. Bg5 h6 12. Bxf6 Nxf6 13. Rac1 {with chances of a slight advantage.}) 9... O-O {Playing with fire.} (9... Bxc3 {is more prudent.}) 10. Rd1 (10. Na4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Now this is really the best move.} d5 (10... Be4 11. Qd1 d5 12. c5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} b5 (12... bxc5 {loses the bishop for insufficient compensation after} 13. a3) 13. a3 $1 {[%c_effect a3;square;a3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} bxa4 14. axb4 {Black's queenside is very weak: the bishop is not well placed on e4.}) 11. c5 b5 12. Nc3 (12. a3 {is also possible:} bxa4 13. axb4 Bc6 14. bxa5 Rxa5 {with a slight advantage for White.}) 12... Bxc3 13. Qxc3 b4 14. Qc2 {With more space and the pair of bishops, White has the advantage.}) 10... Qe7 (10... Bxc3) 11. b3 c5 {I don't like the plan of advancing the central pawns. I prefer the slower} (11... Bxc3 12. Qxc3 Be4) 12. Bb2 {White prepares d4-d5.} d5 $6 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (12... Rac8 $2 {[%c_effect c8;square;c8;type;Mistake;persistent;true] doesn't fight against White's plan:} 13. d5 $1 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Bxc3 14. Qxc3 exd5 15. cxd5 Qxe2 16. Re1 Qa6 17. Nh4 {with a winning initiative.}) (12... Rfe8 {is more subtle. If White tries the same, there's an extra possibility for Black.} 13. d5 Bxc3 14. Qxc3 exd5 15. cxd5 Qf8 $1 {[%c_effect f8;square;f8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Defending the g7-pawn and attacking e2 and d5 with an unclear game.}) 13. cxd5 Bxc3 (13... exd5 {leads to a passive position with a few weaknesses, especially with the bishop on b4. White has many tempting continuations.}) 14. d6 $1 {[%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A typical intermediate move in similar positions. Pattern recognition is very important in chess.} Qxd6 15. Qxc3 Qe7 16. dxc5 Nxc5 17. Ne5 Bxg2 18. Kxg2 {White has a clear advantage. The b2-bishop is strong and Black's queenside is weak, especially the pawn on b6.} Qb7+ 19. Qf3 Nfe4 (19... Qxf3+ 20. Kxf3 {leads to a dream endgame for White.}) 20. Bd4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A good plan. White gains the chance to capture the knight on c5, which will be useful in many positions.} f5 $6 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] This makes things worse.} (20... Rac8 21. Nc4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with a lot of pressure on the queenside.}) (20... Rfd8 {is relatively best, although White is much better after} 21. Bxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (21. Nc4 {is not so good after} Rd5 $1 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 21... Nxc5 22. Qxb7 Nxb7 23. Nd7 $1 {[%c_effect d7;square;d7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} b5 24. Rac1 Rac8 25. Ne5) 21. Nc4 $6 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (21. Bxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is stronger:} bxc5 (21... Nxc5 {loses a pawn after} 22. Qxb7 Nxb7 23. Nd7) 22. Rd7 {with a clear advantage.}) 21... a4 22. b4 Nd7 23. Kg1 $6 {[%c_effect g1;square;g1;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] White needed to avoid the move b6-b5.} (23. b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is a nice prophylactic move. White is better after} Rac8 24. Rac1) 23... Ndf6 $2 {[%c_effect f6;square;f6;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (23... Rac8 24. Rac1 b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This gives Black counterplay after} 25. Na5 Rxc1 26. Rxc1 Qd5) 24. Bxf6 $1 {[%c_effect f6;square;f6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Exchanging the bishop for a knight at the right time is the mark of a strong chess player.} Rxf6 25. Qe3 Rc8 (25... b5 26. Na5 {leads to an overwhelming advantage. White's rooks will occupy the two open files.}) 26. Rac1 $6 {[%c_effect c1;square;c1;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (26. Qxb6 $1 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] It's not clear to me why Aronian didn't capture this pawn. The computer evaluates the position as completely winning for White.}) 26... b5 27. Ne5 Rff8 $6 {[%c_effect f8;square;f8;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (27... Rxc1 {is a better chance:} 28. Qxc1 (28. Rxc1 Qd5 29. Nc6 Rf7 {with some hope.}) 28... Rf8 29. Rd7 Qb6 {Black is still fighting.}) 28. f3 (28. Rxc8 {is more accurate:} Qxc8 (28... Rxc8 29. Rd7 Qb8 30. Nc6 $1 {[%c_effect c6;square;c6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A nice touch.} Rxc6 31. Qd4 {threatening mate and Rd8, winning the queen.}) 29. Qb6 {with a winning position: Black has too many weaknesses.}) 28... Nf6 29. Rxc8 Qxc8 30. Rc1 Nd5 $5 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} 31. Rxc8 Nxe3 32. Rc5 Rb8 33. Nc6 Rb6 {The endgame is still very difficult for Firouzja, but he soon will have some chances.} 34. Nd4 $6 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (34. Kf2 $1 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is better:} Nc4 (34... Nd5 35. a3 {Black is completely tied up.}) (34... Nd1+ 35. Ke1 Ne3 36. Kd2 Nf1+ 37. Kd3 Nxh2 38. Ne5 g5 39. Rc1 {The knight is in trouble.}) 35. Nd4 {This should be winning for White.}) 34... a3 $1 {[%c_effect a3;square;a3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 35. Nxb5 $6 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (35. Kf2 {is better again:} Nd5 36. Nc6 {with winning chances.}) 35... Nd5 36. Nxa3 Rxb4 37. Nc2 Ra4 38. a3 g5 {Despite being a pawn down, Black has enough activity to achieve a draw.} 39. Kf2 h5 40. Rb5 Rc4 $2 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This frees White's knight.} (40... g4 {is better. Black is close to a draw.}) 41. Nb4 $1 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Nxb4 42. axb4 Kf7 43. Ke3 Rc3+ 44. Kd4 Rc2 45. Kd3 Rb2 {This is a very interesting and difficult endgame. It would be possible to write an entire article about it. Not having time for this and it not being the objective of this analysis, I hope to at least show what the critical moments are so that readers can continue their analytical journey if they so wish.} 46. Rb7+ $2 {[%c_effect b7;square;b7;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This lets the win slip after extremely precise play by Black.} (46. Rb8 $1 {[%c_effect b8;square;b8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is better. White essentially wins a tempo, as the rook is needed on b8. Black cannot wait passively.} Kf6 (46... Kg7 47. b5 Kf7 {White has a simple winning plan in this case.} 48. b6 Kg7 49. b7 Rb1 50. Kd4 Rb2 51. f4 gxf4 52. gxf4 Rb5 53. Kc4 Rb2 54. Kc5 {followed by Kd6.}) 47. b5 Ke5 (47... e5 48. b6 {and Black is not in time.}) 48. b6 Kd6 49. b7 Kc7 50. Re8 Kxb7 51. Rxe6 {with an easy win. Black's pawns cannot be protected.}) 46... Kf6 47. b5 Ke5 $2 {[%c_effect e5;square;e5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (47... e5 $1 {[%c_effect e5;square;e5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the only way. This might lead to a drawn position after} 48. b6 g4 49. fxg4 hxg4 50. Rb8 f4 $1 {[%c_effect f4;square;f4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 51. b7 Kg7 {White cannot make progress.}) 48. b6 Kd6 49. Rb8 Kc6 50. b7 g4 (50... Rxb7 {The pawn endgame is easily winning:} 51. Rxb7 Kxb7 52. Kd4 Kc6 53. Ke5 Kd7 54. Kf6) 51. Ke3 $1 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The king marches to the kingside.} gxf3 52. Kxf3 Rb6 53. Kf4 Rb4+ 54. Kg5 Re4 55. Rc8+ Kxb7 56. Rc2 {Black's king is cut, and this is the determining factor of White's victory.} h4 57. gxh4 Rg4+ 58. Kf6 Rg2 (58... Rxh4 59. Kxe6 Rxh2 60. Kxf5 {With a winning position, as the tablebase indicates.}) 59. h3 $1 {[%c_effect h3;square;h3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} (59. Kxe6 $2 {[%c_effect e6;square;e6;type;Mistake;persistent;true] It's never too late to misplay a winning position.} f4 60. Rc4 Rxe2+ 61. Kf5 f3 {with a draw.}) 59... f4 60. Rc4 Rxe2 61. Rxf4 e5 62. Rc4 Re3 63. h5 e4 (63... Rxh3 64. Kg5 {Followed by h6 and Rh4.}) 64. Kg5 Kb6 65. h4 Kb5 66. Rc8 Re1 67. h6 1-0 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "St. Louis, USA"] [Date "2023.11.27"] [Round "6"] [White "Firouzja, Alireza"] [Black "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Result "0-1"] [ECO "C58"] [WhiteElo "2777"] [BlackElo "2795"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "88"] [Beauty "7356071039059"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {0-} 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. Ng5 {A sharp line that indicates Firouzja's aggressive intentions. Caruana had a painful defeat against Nakamura in this line this year, in the last round of Norway Chess.} d5 5. exd5 Na5 6. Bb5+ c6 7. dxc6 bxc6 8. Bd3 Nd5 9. h4 $5 {[%c_effect h4;square;h4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] A surprising choice, as this is a move that doesn't have a good reputation and leads to chaotic positions.} (9. Nf3 {is the main line.}) 9... h6 10. Qh5 Qf6 11. Ne4 {Firouzja recently had to face this line with the black pieces. Perhaps this inspired him to try playing the position with the other color.} (11. Nh7 {is also possible, with unclear play in a position that seems to me more difficult for White to handle after} Rxh7 12. Bxh7 g6 13. Qe2 Nf4 14. Qf3) 11... Qe6 (11... Qe7 {may be played if Black wishes to avoid a draw by repetition.}) 12. b3 (12. Ng5 {White can force a repetition with this move.} Qf6) 12... g6 13. Qe2 f5 {In the post-game interview Caruana said that he couldn't remember his analysis of this variation and that if you don't check a line for a week or two the details fade very quickly. On the one hand, it's good to know that even a chess player of his stature has problems remembering the analysis. On the other hand, this gives an idea of the amount of work required at the highest level, even if it's simply reviewing your notes.} 14. Nec3 Bg7 (14... Nf4 {is recommended by Jan Gustafsson in his opening course and was played by Firouzja when he had the black pieces.} 15. Qf1 Bb7 (15... e4 16. Be2 Bg7 17. Bb2 Nd3+ $6 {[%c_effect d3;square;d3;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 18. cxd3 exd3 {was Nepomniachtchi-Firouzja, AI Cup Chess.com rapid 2023. Now} 19. Na4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] gives White an advantage.})) 15. Bb2 {This natural move is a novelty.} (15. Nxd5 $6 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} cxd5 {with the advantage for Black.} (15... Qxd5 $2 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 16. f3 {was better for White in Poetsch-Eichler, Schwarzach op 2017.})) 15... O-O 16. Na3 e4 17. Bc4 Nxc4 18. Qxc4 Rb8 {After this move, Firouzja started to think, an indication that his opening analysis ended at this point.} (18... Rf7 {is recommended by Gawain Jones in a recent opening course.} 19. O-O-O a5 {with the idea of playing ...Ba6. The game might end in a draw after} 20. Qc5 Bf8 21. Qd4 Bg7) 19. O-O-O {A natural move, but here it's more accurate to play} (19. Qc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with chances of an advantage.}) 19... Rb4 $1 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is the problem for White—his queen can no longer go to d4.} 20. Qe2 (20. Qc5 $2 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} Bd4 21. Qa5 Bb6 {The queen is lost.}) 20... a5 {The advance of the a-pawn is the natural plan to create a queenside attack.} 21. Rhe1 $2 {[%c_effect e1;square;e1;type;Mistake;persistent;true] Caruana said he felt this was a very strange move.} (21. f3 Nf4 (21... a4 {is also interesting.}) 22. Qf2 Bd4 23. Qg3 Be5 {with a good position for Black, who can accept a draw or play for more after 24.Qf2.}) (21. Nxd5 {is possible:} cxd5 22. Bxg7 (22. d3 d4 {with good compensation.}) 22... Kxg7 23. d3 Qe5 24. Kb1 Be6 {with enough compensation for the pawn. The knight on a3 makes a bad impression.}) 21... a4 $2 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (21... Nf4 $1 {[%c_effect f4;square;f4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is more accurate and actually winning.} 22. Qf1 a4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The attack is too strong now: the knight is ready to be sacrificed on d3 in many lines, destroying the king's protection.} 23. d4 (23. Nxa4 Rxa4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 24. bxa4 Bxb2+ 25. Kxb2 Qf6+ 26. c3 (26. Kb1 Nd3 $1 {[%c_effect d3;square;d3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 27. cxd3 Ba6 {with a decisive attack.}) 26... Nd3+ 27. Ka1 Be6 {followed by ...Ra8, with a winning attack.}) 23... axb3 24. axb3 c5 {[%CAl Bc8a6]}) 22. g3 $6 {[%c_effect g3;square;g3;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} (22. Nxa4 $2 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;Mistake;persistent;true] loses due to the exchange sacrifice:} Rxa4 $1 {[%c_effect a4;square;a4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 23. bxa4 Bxb2+ 24. Kxb2 Ba6 $1 {[%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A beautiful move.} 25. c4 (25. Qxa6 Rb8+ {followed by ...Nb4 with a winning attack.}) 25... Qd6 {White is unable to protect the king.}) (22. f3 $2 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;Mistake;persistent;true] is also bad:} Nf4 23. Qf1 axb3 24. axb3 Nd3+ $1 {[%c_effect d3;square;d3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 25. cxd3 (25. Qxd3 exd3 26. Rxe6 Bxe6 {with a material advantage.}) 25... Qxb3 26. Nc4 Ba6 {with mate soon to follow.}) (22. Nxd5 $1 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the best chance. It's necessary to exchange off the dangerous knight.} cxd5 23. Bxg7 Kxg7 24. d3 {with a double-edged position.}) 22... axb3 23. axb3 (23. cxb3 $5 {[%c_effect b3;square;b3;type;Interesting;persistent;true] This \"ugly\" capture can also be considered.}) 23... Qd6 (23... Qf7 $5 {[%c_effect f7;square;f7;type;Interesting;persistent;true] is another route for the queen.} 24. f3 Qa7 {with many complications.}) 24. f3 $1 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Qc5 (24... Qxg3 {It's difficult even to see that this pawn is hanging, as Caruana evidently had his sights set on the other side of the board. The computer, however, indicates this as equality after difficult play for both sides.} 25. Rg1 exf3 $1 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 26. Qd3 Qxh4 27. Rxg6 Rg4 28. Rxg7+ Rxg7 29. Nxd5 cxd5 30. Bxg7 Kxg7 31. Qxf3) 25. Nab1 {An ambitious choice.} (25. fxe4 {is possible, simplifying the game a little bit.} Nxc3 26. dxc3 Rxe4 (26... Bxc3 {is also possible, with a slight advantage for White.}) 27. Qd2 {with a balanced position.}) 25... Re8 26. fxe4 (26. Ba3 {It looks more natural to go after the rook immediately.} Qa5 27. Nxd5 cxd5 28. Bxb4 Qxb4 29. d4 $1 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Now Black must prove his compensation.} Bf8 $5 {[%c_effect f8;square;f8;type;Interesting;persistent;true] This is the computer's suggestion, with adequate counterplay.} (29... Bxd4 {was mentioned by Caruana, but here White achieves an advantage after} 30. Qd2 Qxd2+ 31. Rxd2 Bc5 32. Nc3 $1 {[%c_effect c3;square;c3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The move he missed, with good reason: it's anything but easy.} (32. Rxd5 Bf2 {with compensation.}) 32... d4 33. Nd5 Kg7 34. b4 Ba7 35. c4 {and apparently Black's pawns are not as dangerous as they look.})) 26... fxe4 (26... Rbxe4 $5 {[%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] is interesting, likely leading to a draw:} 27. Nxe4 (27. Qf1 {keeps the tension in the game.} Nb4) 27... Qxc2+ $1 {[%c_effect c2;square;c2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 28. Kxc2 Nb4+ 29. Kc1 Na2+ {with perpetual check.}) 27. Ba3 Qa5 28. Bxb4 Nxb4 {It's clear that Black has good compensation: the g7-bishop is too strong and White's king is insecure.} 29. d4 (29. Qc4+ {is an interesting choice.} Kh7 (29... Be6 $2 {[%c_effect e6;square;e6;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 30. Qxe4) 30. Rxe4 Rxe4 31. Qxe4 Bf5 32. Qe7 Bxc2 {I'd prefer to play with Black, but the computer evaluates this as equality.}) 29... e3 30. Kb2 $2 {[%c_effect b2;square;b2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This puts the king in a dangerous spot.} (30. Qf3 $2 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;Mistake;persistent;true] also fails:} h5 $1 {[%c_effect h5;square;h5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] with the idea} 31. Rxe3 Bh6) (30. g4 $5 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;Interesting;persistent;true] is a curious prophylactic move to prevent Black's h6-h5 move.} c5 31. Qc4+ Kh8 32. Qxc5 Qxc5 33. dxc5 Bxg4 {with good compensation for Black.}) (30. Qc4+ {is possible:} Kh7 (30... Be6 31. Rxe3 $3 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;Brilliant;persistent;true]} Bxc4 32. Rxe8+ Kf7 33. Rde1 {The computer surprisingly assesses this position as equal.}) 31. Qf7 Rf8 32. Qe7 {is an improved version of what we will see in the game, although it still looks dangerous for White.} Bg4 (32... Rf2)) 30... h5 $1 {[%c_effect h5;square;h5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] My favorite move of the game. The bishop is ready to go to g4.} (30... Kh7 $5 {[%c_effect h7;square;h7;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Anticipating Qc4+ and preparing c6-c5 is also very good.}) 31. Na3 Bg4 32. Qc4+ Kh7 33. Qf7 {A desperate attempt to create counterplay.} Rf8 34. Qe7 Bxd1 35. Rxd1 Rf2 $2 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This lets the win slip away.} (35... c5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] is the right way to go. Black wins by force.} 36. Nc4 (36. Qxc5 {leads to a pretty finish:} Qxc5 37. dxc5 e2 38. Re1 Nd5 39. Nab5 Nxc3 40. Nxc3 Re8 $1 {[%c_effect e8;square;e8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] There's no defense against ...Re3.} 41. c6 Re3 42. c7 Bxc3+ 43. Kc1 (43. Kb1 Re8 44. c8=Q Rxc8 45. Rxe2 Ra8 {followed by mate.}) 43... Bxe1 44. c8=Q Bd2+ {The e-pawn promotes.}) 36... Qa8 $1 {[%c_effect a8;square;a8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 37. Qxc5 e2 38. Re1 (38. Rc1 Na6 $1 {[%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] White is unable to protect the d4-pawn after the queen is chased away.}) 38... Rf1 $1 {[%c_effect f1;square;f1;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 39. Rxe2 Qa1#) 36. Ne4 $2 {[%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (36. Nc4 $1 {[%c_effect c4;square;c4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] saves the game. Black even has to be careful now.} Rxc2+ 37. Kb1 Qf5 $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 38. Nxe3 $1 {[%c_effect e3;square;e3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This move was missed by Caruana.} Qf2 $1 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 39. Qxb4 Rb2+ 40. Ka1 (40. Kc1 Bh6 41. Qb7+ {with perpetual check.}) 40... c5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 41. Qa3 (41. Qxc5 $6 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} Rxb3) 41... Rd2 {Black manages to save the game. A possible finish is:} 42. Rxd2 Qxd2 43. Ned5 cxd4 44. Qe7 $1 {[%c_effect e7;square;e7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} dxc3 45. Nf6+ Kh6 46. Ng8+ {with perpetual check.}) 36... Rxc2+ (36... Nd5 {is also winning.}) 37. Kb1 (37. Nxc2 Qa2+ 38. Kc3 Nd5+ 39. Kd3 Qa6#) 37... Rf2 $1 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The rook must come back to rescue the king from the checks.} 38. Ng5+ Kh8 39. Qe8+ (39. Qxe3 Rf8 $1 {[%c_effect f8;square;f8;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The most accurate move, with a decisive attack.} (39... Qxa3 {is unclear:} 40. Qxf2 Qxb3+ 41. Kc1)) 39... Rf8 40. Qxg6 Qf5+ $1 {[%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 41. Qxf5 Rxf5 {The e-pawn is ready to advance.} 42. Re1 Bxd4 43. Nc2 Bc3 $1 {[%c_effect c3;square;c3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A nice winning move.} 44. Nxe3 (44. Rxe3 Rf1+ 45. Ne1 Rxe1+ 46. Rxe1 Bxe1 {wins a piece.}) 44... Rxg5 (44... Rf2 {is also easily winning.}) (44... Rxg5 45. Rc1 Rc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The only move to protect the bishop, but good enough.}) 0-1 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.27"] [Round "6"] [White "Giri, Anish"] [Black "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Result "0-1"] [ECO "B20"] [WhiteElo "2752"] [BlackElo "2745"] [PlyCount "112"] [Beauty "6601498964520"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. g3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} c5 {[%emt 0:07:51]} 2. Bg2 {[%emt 0:00:25]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:02:15]} 3. e4 {[%emt 0:00:12]} g6 {[%emt 0:02:05]} 4. d3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Bg7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 5. f4 {[%emt 0:00:24]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 6. Nh3 {[%emt 0:00:13]} h5 {[%emt 0:07:10]} 7. Nf2 {[%emt 0:02:23]} e5 {[%emt 0:07:01]} 8. Nc3 {[%emt 0:03:21]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:12:51]} 9. h3 {[%emt 0:06:38]} Bh6 {[%emt 0:02:16]} 10. Ne2 {[%emt 0:14:31]} Nd4 {[%emt 0:03:57]} 11. O-O {[%emt 0:08:35]} Ne6 {[%emt 0:02:29]} 12. fxe5 {[%emt 0:19:49]} Bxc1 {[%emt 0:07:35]} 13. Qxc1 {[%emt 0:06:05]} dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 14. Nd1 {[%emt 0:10:03]} h4 {[%emt 0:07:36]} 15. g4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} g5 {[%emt 0:00:31]} 16. Ne3 {[%emt 0:00:27]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:01:17]} 17. Qe1 {[%emt 0:03:47]} Be6 {[%emt 0:03:20]} 18. Nxf4 {[%emt 0:01:14]} gxf4 {[%emt 0:10:27]} 19. Nf5 {[%emt 0:03:06]} Bxf5 {[%emt 0:05:17]} 20. exf5 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Qd4+ {[%emt 0:00:07]} 21. Kh1 {[%emt 0:01:36]} O-O-O {[%emt 0:00:07]} 22. Qa5 {[%emt 0:04:46]} Kb8 {[%emt 0:01:58]} 23. Rae1 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rhe8 {[%emt 0:04:12]} 24. c3 $6 {[%emt 0:05:04] [%c_effect c3;square;c3;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] The exchange of the d3-pawn for the c5-pawn favors Black, who gains connected passers on e5 and f4, which his pieces will be able to facilitate their march down the board.} Qxd3 {[%emt 0:03:53]} 25. Qxc5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Qg3 {[%emt 0:01:04]} 26. Qf2 {[%emt 0:01:05]} Qxf2 {[%emt 0:00:49]} 27. Rxf2 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nh7 $1 {[%emt 0:00:14] [%c_effect h7;square;h7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The knight heads to the g5-square where it will fight for control of the squares in front of both passers: e4 and f3.} 28. f6 {[%emt 0:02:57]} Ng5 {[%emt 0:01:19]} 29. Be4 {[%emt 0:03:30]} Rd6 {[%emt 0:02:45]} 30. Kg2 {[%emt 0:01:13]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:02:07]} 31. Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:39]} Kd8 {[%emt 0:01:13]} 32. b4 {[%emt 0:02:28]} Rxf6 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 33. Rd2+ {[%emt 0:00:34]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 34. Rd7+ {[%emt 0:00:30]} Kb8 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 35. c4 {[%emt 0:00:52]} e4 {[%emt 0:00:40]} 36. c5 {[%emt 0:00:42]} e3 {[%emt 0:00:25]} 37. Kf1 {[%emt 0:00:29]} a6 {[%emt 0:00:59]} 38. Rd6 {[%emt 0:00:26]} Rxf5 $3 {[%emt 0:01:23] [%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;Brilliant;persistent;true] Black is fully focused on supporting his passed pawns.} 39. gxf5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:14] The knight heads to a more centralized square to limit the white rooks' ability to hinder his e- and f-pawns.} (39... f3 $2 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} 40. Rd3) 40. Re2 {[%emt 0:01:02]} Re4 {[%emt 0:00:48] One of the winning moves, played with just one second left on his clock.} 41. a3 {[%emt 0:21:25]} Ne5 {[%emt 0:04:48]} 42. Rc2 {[%emt 0:04:17]} f3 {[%emt 0:00:41]} 43. Rc1 {[%emt 0:01:06]} Rc4 {[%emt 0:03:06]} 44. Re1 {[%emt 0:04:41]} Rc3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 45. Rd8+ {[%emt 0:00:58]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 46. Re8 {[%emt 0:00:05]} e2+ {[%emt 0:03:38]} 47. Kf2 {[%emt 0:00:33]} Nd3+ {[%emt 0:00:06]} 48. Kxf3 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nxe1+ {[%emt 0:00:06]} 49. Kxe2 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Ng2 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 50. Re7+ {[%emt 0:00:05]} Kc6 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 51. Rxf7 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nf4+ {[%emt 0:00:17]} 52. Kd2 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Rxh3 {[%emt 0:01:16]} 53. Rf6+ {[%emt 0:00:14]} Kd5 {[%emt 0:00:56]} 54. Rd6+ {[%emt 0:01:47]} Ke5 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 55. f6 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Rf3 {[%emt 0:00:59]} 56. f7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Ne6 {[%emt 0:00:48] 0-} 0-1 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.27"] [Round "6"] [White "So, Wesley"] [Black "Aronian, Levon"] [Result "*"] [ECO "C67"] [WhiteElo "2752"] [BlackElo "2727"] [PlyCount "155"] [Beauty "4332145614872"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:01:20]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 3. Bb5 {[%emt 0:00:28]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 4. O-O {[%emt 0:00:14]} Nxe4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 5. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 6. Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Be7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 7. Bf1 {[%emt 0:00:48]} Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 8. Rxe5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:09]} 9. d4 {[%emt 0:00:01]} Bf6 {[%emt 0:00:30]} 10. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 11. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Rxe1 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 12. Qxe1 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Ne8 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 13. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bxd4 {[%emt 0:00:49]} 14. Nd5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} c6 {[%emt 0:00:39]} 15. Ne7+ {[%emt 0:00:24]} Kf8 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 16. Nxc8 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Qf6 {[%emt 0:00:09] The players have embarked on a dynamic sequence aimed at reaching the upcoming endgame.} 17. Rd1 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Rxc8 {[%emt 0:01:18]} 18. Qe4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Bxf2+ {[%emt 0:03:04]} 19. Kxf2 {[%emt 0:00:07]} g5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 20. Rxd7 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rc7 {[%emt 0:00:35]} 21. Rxc7 {[%emt 0:09:56]} Nxc7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 22. Qe5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Qxf4+ {[%emt 0:00:06]} 23. Qxf4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} gxf4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 24. Kf3 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nd5 {[%emt 0:08:07]} ({So believed Black should play} 24... Ne8 {, aiming to set up a fortress with} 25. Kxf4 Nd6 26. Bd3 (26. Ke5 Ke7) 26... h6 27. a3 f6 28. c4 c5) 25. c4 {[%emt 0:10:27]} Nc7 {[%emt 0:08:11]} (25... Ne3 26. Bd3 h6 27. b3 Ke7 28. g3 {and the knight is unsteady and running low on squares.}) 26. Bd3 {[%emt 0:15:31]} h6 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 27. Kxf4 {[%emt 0:00:05] Though material is even, White has a small edge due to his more connected pawn structure and his bishop's strength in a position with pawns on both sides.} c5 {[%emt 0:01:48] So was surprised by this move, which weakens d5, a potential infiltration square for the white king.} (27... a5 {is safer.}) 28. Ke5 {[%emt 0:18:17]} Ke7 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 29. Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} b6 {[%emt 0:01:40]} 30. h4 {[%emt 0:07:02]} Ne8 {[%emt 0:04:32]} ({If Black tries to keep the white king out of the d5-square with} 30... f6+ 31. Ke4 Kd6 {, White can switch to penetrating on the kingside with:} 32. Bg4 Ke7 33. Kf5) 31. Kd5 {[%emt 0:02:54]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:03:08]} 32. Bh3 {[%emt 0:09:03]} Ne8 {[%emt 0:06:35]} 33. Bf5 {[%emt 0:03:34]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:01:13]} 34. Bc2 {[%emt 0:08:01]} f6 {[%emt 0:09:43]} 35. Bg6 {[%emt 0:02:00]} Nb7 {[%emt 0:01:34]} 36. b3 {[%emt 0:01:16]} Nd8 {[%emt 0:12:00]} 37. Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:45]} Nf7 {[%emt 0:00:32] Black continues to struggle with zugzwang, allowing the white king to advance.} ({If} 37... a6 {White can run him out of moves with} 38. g4 a5 39. h5) 38. Kc6 {[%emt 0:00:22]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:01:56]} 39. Bh7 {[%emt 0:06:30]} Nf7 {[%emt 0:07:59]} 40. Kc7 {[%emt 0:03:07]} Ne5 {[%emt 0:00:47]} 41. Bf5 {[%emt 0:31:27]} Nf7 {[%emt 0:30:22]} 42. a3 {[%emt 0:04:37]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:06:23]} 43. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Nf7 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 44. Kb7 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Kd6 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 45. Kxa7 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 46. Ka6 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Nd8 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 47. Be4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Ne6 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 48. b4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} cxb4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 49. axb4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Nd4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 50. c5 {[%emt 0:00:00]} bxc5 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 51. bxc5 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Ne2 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 52. Ka5 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:04:14]} 53. Kb4 {[%emt 0:00:41]} Ne2 {[%emt 0:02:29]} 54. Kc4 {[%emt 0:00:21]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 55. g3 {[%emt 0:03:03]} ({So felt that} 55. Bf3 {would've made the win easier, not allowing Black options to trade enough pawns for bishop and wrong-color rook-pawn tricks.} Ng6 56. h5 Ne7 57. Kb5) 55... Ne2 {[%emt 0:02:58]} 56. g4 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nf4 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 57. Bf3 {[%emt 0:00:34]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:01:41]} 58. Kd5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Nf4+ {[%emt 0:06:46]} 59. Ke4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:01:20]} 60. Kd5 {[%emt 0:00:25]} Nf4+ {[%emt 0:00:59]} 61. Kd4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:00:57]} 62. Be4 {[%emt 0:00:36]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:30]} ({If} 62... Nxh4 {the knight is trapped on the edge of the board.}) 63. Kc4 {[%emt 0:00:20]} Kd7 {[%emt 0:00:32]} 64. Kb5 {[%emt 0:01:42]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 65. Kb4 {[%emt 0:01:06]} Kd7 {[%emt 0:01:30]} 66. Ka5 {[%emt 0:00:22]} Kc7 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 67. Kb5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Nc8 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 68. h5 {[%emt 0:01:22]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 69. c6 {[%emt 0:01:04]} Nc8 {[%emt 0:07:49]} 70. Kc5 {[%emt 0:00:01]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 71. Kb5 {[%emt 0:00:22]} Nc8 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 72. Kc5 {[%emt 0:00:01]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 73. Bg2 {[%emt 0:02:53]} f5 {[%emt 0:06:08] Black's big hope is to exchange these pawns, sacrifice his knight for the c6-pawn, and race his king to h8.} 74. g5 {[%emt 0:00:01]} hxg5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 75. h6 {[%emt 0:00:01]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:00:31]} 76. h7 {[%emt 0:00:09]} g4 {[%emt 0:00:51]} 77. Kd5 {[%emt 0:00:19]} g3 {[%emt 0:01:37]} 78. Bh1 {[%emt 0:00:47]} (78. Bh1 f4 79. Be4 Ne7+ 80. Ke5 Ng6+ 81. Kf6) * [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.27"] [Round "6"] [White "Rapport, Richard"] [Black "Vachier-Lagrave, Maxime"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "B50"] [WhiteElo "2748"] [BlackElo "2734"] [PlyCount "70"] [Beauty "6393327259655"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:07]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 3. c3 {[%emt 0:01:17]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 4. Be2 {[%emt 0:00:05]} g6 {[%emt 0:00:35]} 5. O-O {[%emt 0:00:11]} Bg7 {[%emt 0:00:19]} 6. Bb5+ {[%emt 0:00:24]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:52]} 7. d4 {[%emt 0:00:18]} O-O {[%emt 0:01:29]} 8. d5 {[%emt 0:00:24]} Na5 {[%emt 0:00:19]} 9. Re1 {[%emt 0:13:37]} Bd7 {[%emt 0:08:17]} 10. Bf1 {[%emt 0:14:16]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:37]} 11. e5 {[%emt 0:05:23]} dxe5 {[%emt 0:20:29]} 12. Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:54]} c4 {[%emt 0:02:16]} 13. b4 {[%emt 0:23:57]} (13. g3 {is also strong, aiming to overprotect the d5-pawn with Bg2, reinforcing White's grip on the position.}) 13... Nb7 {[%emt 0:00:12]} 14. a4 {[%emt 0:00:18]} a6 {[%emt 0:06:41]} 15. g3 {[%emt 0:02:20]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:03:22]} 16. axb5 {[%emt 0:01:50]} ({White could also continue to improve his position with} 16. Bg2 Qc8 17. Bf4 Re8 18. Nc6) 16... axb5 {[%emt 0:00:43]} 17. Rxa8 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Qxa8 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 18. Nxd7 {[%emt 0:00:44]} Nxd7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 19. Rxe7 {[%emt 0:00:20]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:25:35] As good as White's position appears, his extra passed pawn on d5 is blockaded, and Black finds a compelling defensive setup.} 20. Bg2 {[%emt 0:02:09]} Re8 {[%emt 0:00:56]} 21. Rxe8+ {[%emt 0:00:59]} Nfxe8 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 22. Qc2 {[%emt 0:10:58]} h5 {[%emt 0:01:56]} 23. h4 {[%emt 0:00:56]} Nf5 {[%emt 0:01:30]} 24. Bf4 {[%emt 0:05:39]} Ned6 {[%emt 0:01:37]} 25. Bf3 {[%emt 0:00:26]} Bh6 {[%emt 0:02:49]} 26. Bxh6 {[%emt 0:01:44]} Nxh6 {[%emt 0:00:23]} 27. Nd2 {[%emt 0:00:53]} Nhf5 {[%emt 0:04:41]} 28. Kg2 {[%emt 0:06:15]} Qe8 {[%emt 0:01:01]} 29. Ne4 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Qe5 {[%emt 0:00:16]} 30. Nxd6 {[%emt 0:00:37]} Nxd6 {[%emt 0:00:12]} 31. Qc1 {[%emt 0:00:58]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:01:37]} 32. Kf1 {[%emt 0:01:22]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:02:02]} 33. Kg2 {[%emt 0:01:07]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 34. Kf1 {[%emt 0:00:52]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:00:13]} 35. Kg2 {[%emt 0:01:44]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:00:36]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.28"] [Round "7"] [White "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Black "So, Wesley"] [Result "1-0"] [ECO "E42"] [WhiteElo "2795"] [BlackElo "2752"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "49"] [Beauty "8251705921553"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,49,25,25,27,24,24,24,24,20,34,18,31,39,48,43,50,29,33,25,63,66,58,66,63,63,127,127,127,93,93,107,127,131,131,131,132,132,124,124,124,124,172,187,285,307,307,307,383,388,360,388]} 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 c5 5. Nge2 d5 6. a3 Ba5 {A fashionable move in the Nimzo-Indian Defense. Historically 6...Bxc3 is more popular.} 7. dxc5 dxc4 8. Bd2 (8. Qxd8+ {Caruana played this endgame in 2023, but the position is more or less equal after} Kxd8 9. Bd2 Nbd7 {Caruana-Nepomniachtchi, Zagreb SuperUnited Blitz 2023.}) 8... Nbd7 (8... O-O 9. Ng3 b6 {It's possible this was the line So really wanted to play.} 10. Bxc4 (10. Qf3 {is not working so well because the queen is trapped on a8 in most lines.} Qc7 $1 {[%c_effect c7;square;c7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 10... bxc5 11. O-O (11. Qf3 {Again this is not effective:} Bd7 12. Qxa8 $2 {[%c_effect a8;square;a8;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} Bc6 13. Qxa7 Bb6 {The queen is trapped.}) 11... Nbd7 12. Qc2 Bb7 {with a normal position in Grischuk-Nepomniachtchi, Amsterdam Levitov Rapid 2023.}) 9. Ng3 b6 $2 {[%c_effect b6;square;b6;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This move is a theoretical novelty. Far from being preparation, the move is probably the result of So confusing his analysis.} (9... Nxc5 10. Bxc4 Bc7 {is better, with only a slight advantage for White in Wojtaszek-Moranda, POL-ch Kruszwica 2022.}) (9... Ne5 {is also not good, since there's not enough compensation after} 10. Bxc4 Nxc4 11. Qa4+ Bd7 12. Qxc4) 10. Qf3 $1 {[%c_effect f3;square;f3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Played after long deliberation, this is the most accurate reaction.} (10. cxb6 {This is not enough, since Black has good compensation for the pawn in more than one way.} Ba6 (10... Nxb6 {is also possible:} 11. Bxc4 Nxc4 12. Qa4+ Qd7 13. Qxc4 Bb7)) (10. c6 Ne5 {is also not very convincing.}) 10... Rb8 {So also took a long time to play this move. He probably realized something went wrong.} (10... Ba6 $6 {[%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 11. b4 $1 {[%c_effect b4;square;b4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This is the point of White's play. Black loses a piece for insufficient compensation after} cxb3 12. Bxa6) (10... Nd5 $6 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] is also not good after} 11. Bxc4 {with a clear advantage for White.}) 11. c6 Ne5 12. Qf4 Bxc3 $2 {[%c_effect c3;square;c3;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This is the equivalent of resigning the game.} (12... Nxc6 {is much more stubborn.} 13. Qxc4 Bb7 14. b4 b5 {Black still has some hopes with a pawn down.} 15. Nxb5 (15. Qd3 $5 {[%c_effect d3;square;d3;type;Interesting;persistent;true] is also good, forcing a queen exchange.})) 13. Bxc3 Nxc6 {Black's position is painful to watch. White has the pair of bishops, an active queen, and many ways to win the game.} 14. Rd1 {Caruana finishes the game with computer-like precision.} (14. Bxc4 {is simple and good.} O-O 15. Rd1 Qe7 16. Bb5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} Bb7 17. Bxc6 Bxc6 18. Bb4 {winning the exchange and the game.}) ({Even} 14. Qg5 {is interesting.}) 14... Qe7 15. Bxc4 b5 (15... O-O 16. Bb5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] wins the exchange:} Bb7 17. Bxc6 Bxc6 18. Bb4) (15... e5 16. Qf3 {leads to an easy win, for instance:} Qc5 17. Ne4 $1 {[%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] and Black can resign.}) 16. Bxf6 Qxf6 (16... gxf6 17. Ne4 {with a decisive attack. A pretty line is:} bxc4 18. Nxf6+ Kf8 19. Qh6#) 17. Qd6 e5 18. Bxf7+ $1 {[%c_effect f7;square;f7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The final touch.} Kxf7 (18... Qxf7 19. Qxc6+ Bd7 20. Qd6 {The e5-pawn falls as well.}) 19. Qc7+ Qe7 (19... Kg6 20. Rd6 $1 {[%c_effect d6;square;d6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 20. Qxc6 Bb7 (20... Rb6 21. Qd5+ {also brings no hope, although it can prolong the resistance a little bit.}) 21. Qxb5 Bxg2 22. Qc4+ Kf8 23. Nf5 Qf6 24. Qc5+ Kg8 25. Qc7 {Nerves certainly played a role in this rare, crushing defeat for So. He is playing not only for tournament victory but also for a spot in the next Candidates cycle.} (25. Qc7 Re8 26. Nd6 {With the material advantage and a decisive attack.}) 1-0 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.28"] [Round "7"] [White "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Black "Rapport, Richard"] [Result "1-0"] [ECO "B12"] [WhiteElo "2745"] [BlackElo "2748"] [Annotator "3700"] [PlyCount "69"] [Beauty "8044205309962"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,69,16,28,70,70,77,74,62,50,36,32,34,45,63,20,52,14,17,22,6,4,4,2,2,3,10,6,2,2,-3,0,1,-17,0,0,0,-17,0,0,13,-31,-31,-20,-11,-8,-18,-17,-17,-46,3,3,32,32,45,-23,0,44,75,75,105,105,103,110,110,112,245,270,270,216,406,519]} 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} c6 {[%emt 0:00:42]} 2. d4 {[%emt 0:00:23]} d5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 3. e5 {[%emt 0:00:35]} Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 4. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:28]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 5. Be2 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 6. O-O {[%emt 0:00:10]} a5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 7. Ne1 {[%emt 0:02:05]} a4 {[%emt 0:06:10]} 8. c3 {[%emt 0:00:49]} Qb6 {[%emt 0:14:11]} 9. Bd3 {[%emt 0:26:31]} Bg6 {[%emt 0:21:17]} 10. Nd2 {[%emt 0:04:09]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:04:22]} 11. Ndf3 {[%emt 0:03:44]} c5 {[%emt 0:05:07]} 12. Rb1 {[%emt 0:06:35]} Bh5 {[%emt 0:04:18]} 13. Be3 {[%emt 0:14:37]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:01:37]} 14. a3 {[%emt 0:01:27]} Be7 {[%emt 0:02:52]} 15. h3 {[%emt 0:03:57]} Qc7 {[%emt 0:03:46]} 16. Be2 {[%emt 0:08:29]} Bg6 {[%emt 0:05:38]} 17. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:16]} Bh5 {[%emt 0:00:56]} 18. Be2 {[%emt 0:00:53]} Bg6 {[%emt 0:02:10]} 19. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:31]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:44] After achieving equality, Rapport declines repeating the position, looking for chances for an advantage.} 20. g3 {[%emt 0:03:18]} cxd4 {[%emt 0:04:10]} 21. cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Nb6 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 22. Bxg6 {[%emt 0:01:36]} hxg6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 23. h4 {[%emt 0:00:10]} Nc4 {[%emt 0:00:14]} 24. Bg5 {[%emt 0:00:33]} f6 {[%emt 0:10:52] Black's plan to open up the kingside ends up favoring White.} 25. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:14]} g5 {[%emt 0:05:55]} 26. hxg5 {[%emt 0:01:35]} fxe5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 27. dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:44]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:39]} 28. Nd3 {[%emt 0:02:14]} Bb6 {[%emt 0:00:20]} 29. g6 $1 {[%emt 0:01:37] [%c_effect g6;square;g6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Clearing a path for the knight to hop towards the d6-outpost via g5-f7.} Ne7 {[%emt 0:06:13]} 30. Ng5 {[%emt 0:00:38]} Qd7 {[%emt 0:01:21]} 31. Nf7 {[%emt 0:02:33]} Rf8 {[%emt 0:00:55]} 32. Qh5 {[%emt 0:02:42]} d4 {[%emt 0:00:30]} 33. Nd6+ {[%emt 0:01:32]} Kd8 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 34. Rbc1 {[%emt 0:00:38]} Qc6 {[%emt 0:00:31]} 35. Nb4 {[%emt 0:01:51]} (35. Nb4 Qd7 36. Bg5 {when Black is paralyzed while White can attack on all sides of the board:} Nxe5 (36... Nxd6 37. exd6 Qxd6 38. Rc6) (36... Rc8 37. Qh7) (36... Ba5 37. Bxe7+ Qxe7 (37... Kxe7 38. Qh4+) 38. Nc6+) 37. Bxe7+ Kxe7 38. Qxe5) 1-0 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.28"] [Round "7"] [White "Aronian, Levon"] [Black "Giri, Anish"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C42"] [WhiteElo "2727"] [BlackElo "2752"] [PlyCount "60"] [Beauty "6600043535368"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:09]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 3. Nxe5 {[%emt 0:00:38]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 4. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nxe4 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 5. d4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} d5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 6. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Bd6 {[%emt 0:01:06]} 7. O-O {[%emt 0:00:07]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:05]} 8. c4 {[%emt 0:00:19]} c6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 9. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:41]} Nxc3 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 10. bxc3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} dxc4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 11. Bxc4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:48]} 12. Bg5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Qa5 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 13. Nh4 {[%emt 0:00:27]} Be6 {[%emt 0:00:13]} 14. Bxe6 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Qxg5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 15. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Qa5 {[%emt 0:00:05] [%c_arrow g5a5;keyPressed;none;from;g5;opacity;0.8;to;a5;persistent;false]} 16. Qb3 {[%emt 0:02:42]} Qc7 {[%emt 0:01:44]} 17. Bh3 {[%emt 0:02:03]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:00:29]} 18. a4 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:07:00]} 19. g3 {[%emt 0:00:14]} c5 {[%emt 0:03:35]} 20. Nd2 {[%emt 0:02:13]} Rfd8 {[%emt 0:08:33]} 21. Nc4 {[%emt 0:01:53]} Rab8 {[%emt 0:04:06]} 22. a5 {[%emt 0:04:36]} g6 $5 {[%emt 0:13:25] [%c_effect g6;square;g6;type;Interesting;persistent;true]} ({If} 22... b5 23. axb6 axb6 24. Na3 {and the knight can hop to b5, restricting Black's queenside while gaining activity.}) (22... cxd4 $6 {[%c_effect d4;square;d4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 23. cxd4 Bf8 24. Rfd1 b5 25. axb6 axb6 {when it's White's pieces that have gained activity.}) 23. Rfd1 {[%emt 0:06:57]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:04:18]} 24. Rab1 {[%emt 0:04:35]} h5 {[%emt 0:02:22]} 25. Bg2 {[%emt 0:01:32]} h4 {[%emt 0:00:22]} 26. Rd3 {[%emt 0:01:03]} Rdc8 {[%emt 0:11:05]} 27. Bh3 {[%emt 0:06:54]} ({Giri intentionally invited complications with:} 27. Bxb7 hxg3 28. hxg3 Bxg3 29. Rxg3 cxd4 30. Na3 Ne4 {, which leads to an unexpected balance.}) (27. d5 Ng4 $5 {[%c_effect g4;square;g4;type;Interesting;persistent;true]}) 27... Rh8 {[%emt 0:02:43]} 28. Bg2 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rhc8 {[%emt 0:03:12]} 29. Bh3 {[%emt 0:00:36]} Rh8 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 30. Bg2 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rhc8 {[%emt 0:00:44]} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.29"] [Round "8"] [White "Dominguez Perez, Leinier"] [Black "Vachier-Lagrave, Maxime"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "B33"] [WhiteElo "2745"] [BlackElo "2734"] [PlyCount "48"] [Beauty "6597203990025"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:03]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:12]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 3. d4 {[%emt 0:00:25]} cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 4. Nxd4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 5. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:13]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 6. Ndb5 {[%emt 0:01:38]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 7. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 8. Bg5 {[%emt 0:00:08]} a6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 9. Na3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 10. Nd5 {[%emt 0:00:38]} Be7 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 11. Bxf6 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Bxf6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 12. c3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 13. Nxf6+ {[%emt 0:01:00]} gxf6 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 14. Nc2 {[%emt 0:00:20]} Bb7 {[%emt 0:00:10]} 15. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:36]} d5 {[%emt 0:03:35] Black indicates his intent to play for win with a central pawn break.} (15... f5 {The immediate f5 has been tried before but the general consensus is that Black's dark squares end up a little too weak.} 16. exf5 e4 17. Be2 Nxf5 18. Bg4 Nh4 19. Ne3 {[%c_highlight d4;keyPressed;none;opacity;0.8;square;d4;persistent;false][%c_arrow d1d4;keyPressed;none;from;d1;opacity;0.8;to;d4;persistent;false,d4a7;keyPressed;none;from;d4;opacity;0.8;to;a7;persistent;false,d4h8;keyPressed;none;from;d4;opacity;0.8;to;h8;persistent;false] Visually, we can see that White's queen will become a powerful piece.}) 16. Qe2 {[%emt 0:00:12]} f5 {[%emt 0:00:18] Black tries a thematic pawn break, removing his doubled pawns and taking over the center.} 17. exf5 {[%emt 0:02:32]} e4 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 18. f6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nf5 $5 {[%emt 0:00:04] [%c_effect f5;square;f5;type;Interesting;persistent;true] Vachier-Lagrave opts for the second most common move, that threatens to leave White's bishop trapped on d3 once escaping the e-file pin.} (18... Ng6 {With ideas to come to f4 and e5, is more common.}) 19. f3 {[%emt 0:33:37]} Qxf6 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 20. O-O {[%emt 0:00:37]} Qb6+ {[%emt 0:00:21]} 21. Kh1 {[%emt 0:00:42] Dominguez admits that he cannot find clarity in the lines which give White an edge.} (21. Rf2 $1 {[%c_effect f2;square;f2;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This would have been indicative of Dominguez being prepped as the line goes off the rails $1} Kf8 22. fxe4 dxe4 23. Qh5 Nh6 24. Nd4 exd3 $2 {[%c_effect d3;square;d3;type;Mistake;persistent;true] This isn't playable due to} 25. Re1 Bc8 26. Qe5 Rg8 27. Qe7+ Kg7 28. Ne6+ Bxe6 29. Qf6+ Kf8 30. Rxe6 d2 {It's entirely understandable that Dominguez didn't want to play into lines like this when Vachier-Lagrave had shown that he was prepared.}) 21... Qh6 {[%emt 0:00:57]} 22. Kg1 {[%emt 0:03:10]} (22. Qe1 Rg8 23. fxe4 Ng3+ $1 {[%c_effect g3;square;g3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} 24. Kg1 Nxf1 25. exd5+ Kf8 {These lines aren't exactly awe-inspiring for White.}) 22... Qb6+ {[%emt 0:00:25]} 23. Kh1 {[%emt 0:04:38]} Qh6 {[%emt 0:00:20]} 24. Kg1 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Qb6+ {[%emt 0:08:04] Dominguez settles for a draw and hinges his tournament victory chances on his final round game.} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.29"] [Round "8"] [White "So, Wesley"] [Black "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "E32"] [WhiteElo "2752"] [BlackElo "2771"] [PlyCount "74"] [Beauty "6257251455011"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. d4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 2. c4 {[%emt 0:00:28]} e6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 3. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Bb4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 4. Qc2 {[%emt 0:00:28]} O-O {[%emt 0:00:08]} 5. e4 {[%emt 0:00:15]} d5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 6. e5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Ne4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 7. Bd3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} c5 {[%emt 0:00:19]} 8. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} cxd4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} 9. Nxd4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Nd7 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 10. Bf4 {[%emt 0:00:18]} Qh4 {[%emt 0:00:07] These Nimzo-Indian lines are quite topical of late and are favored by players trying to press with the black pieces.} 11. g3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Qh5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 12. O-O {[%emt 0:00:06]} g5 {[%emt 0:00:11] Both players had added four minutes to their clock after 12 moves showing that they were both ready for this line.} 13. cxd5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nxc3 {[%emt 0:00:25]} (13... gxf4 {Black has a few ways to venture here but this is surely one of the most venomous moves.} 14. dxe6 fxe6 15. Nxe4 Nxe5 16. gxf4 Qg4+ 17. Kh1 Qxf4 {White's king is looking somewhat dicey, although his piece activity makes up for it.}) 14. dxe6 {[%emt 0:00:08]} gxf4 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 15. exd7 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Bxd7 {[%emt 0:00:55]} 16. bxc3 {[%emt 0:00:06]} fxg3 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 17. hxg3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} (17. Bxh7+ $1 {[%c_effect h7;square;h7;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] This move hasn't been played before but has the potential to leave White with a minute advantage.} Qxh7 18. Qxh7+ Kxh7 19. cxb4 gxh2+ 20. Kxh2 Rg8 {White is a pawn to the good but his king is exposed.}) 17... Rac8 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 18. Bf5 {[%emt 0:00:09]} Bxc3 {[%emt 0:01:04]} 19. Qd1 {[%emt 0:00:17]} Qxd1 {[%emt 0:01:58]} 20. Raxd1 {[%emt 0:00:41]} Rc4 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 21. Bxd7 {[%emt 0:00:07]} Rxd4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 22. e6 {[%emt 0:00:13] The players finally leave book, but the damage is done to their winning ambitions. The opposite-colored bishop ending will be a straightforward draw.} fxe6 {[%emt 0:00:33]} 23. Bxe6+ {[%emt 0:00:05]} Kg7 {[%emt 0:00:04]} 24. Rxd4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bxd4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 25. Kg2 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Rf6 {[%emt 0:04:23]} 26. Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:28]} b5 {[%emt 0:01:04]} 27. f4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} a5 {[%emt 0:00:48]} 28. Rd1 {[%emt 0:00:40]} Rd6 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 29. a4 {[%emt 0:00:07] This is a more important move than it seems. If Black is given the chance to play a4 himself, the pawns may start rolling.} (29. Kf3 a4 30. Bc2 {This may seem innocuous, though things can easily go wrong once connected pawns reach the fourth or third ranks.}) 29... b4 {[%emt 0:00:28]} 30. Kf3 {[%emt 0:00:19]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 31. Rxd6 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bxd6 {[%emt 0:00:01]} 32. g4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} h6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 33. Ke4 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Kf6 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 34. Bc4 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Bc7 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 35. Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bd6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 36. Bc4 {[%emt 0:00:03]} Bc7 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 37. Bb3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bd6 {[%emt 0:00:37] With no way to make progress, the players agree to a truce, leaving So shy of the required placing to give himself a shot at the top two Grand Chess Tour spots.} 1/2-1/2 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.30"] [Round "9"] [White "Caruana, Fabiano"] [Black "Rapport, Richard"] [Result "1-0"] [ECO "D94"] [WhiteElo "2795"] [BlackElo "2748"] [Annotator "rafael"] [PlyCount "79"] [Beauty "7701992048150"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] {[%evp 0,79,15,20,44,-9,33,29,22,9,43,42,74,76,83,88,69,64,72,37,37,35,27,19,31,30,31,-9,-9,1,0,19,8,9,0,10,15,3,0,-6,-7,-21,9,12,49,59,86,81,81,59,79,84,104,96,144,85,102,108,120,118,235,241,236,164,273,221,250,265,255,272,228,246,244,259,274,259,261,262,267,258,387,377]} 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 e6 5. e3 g6 {This move leads to a passive position of the Schlechter Defense with the pawn advancing to e6. Of course, advancing the pawns to e6 and g6, especially at the beginning of the game, is not so logical. Both moves have the same main objective: to free the bishop's path. The great merit of this move, and to be honest perhaps the only one, is taking Caruana out of his usual high-level preparation. It must be admitted that Rapport's strategy will have some success.} 6. Bd3 (6. b3 {is a direct attempt to refute Black's play, since White can try} Bg7 7. Ba3 $1 {[%c_effect a3;square;a3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Evidently Rapport had something prepared in this case, and Caruana decided to play it simple.}) 6... Bg7 7. O-O O-O 8. e4 {It's also possible to play a slower, more maneuvering game with 8.b3. It's hard to say which is better.} (8. b3) 8... dxe4 9. Bxe4 {At first glance, this move seems very clever, provoking the exchange of the knight for the bishop in a favorable situation for White. Rapport's next excellent move, however, shows the shortcomings of the bishop capture.} (9. Nxe4 Nxe4 10. Bxe4 Qc7 {White can fight for an advantage here with better development and more space.}) 9... b5 $1 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] A creative resource and the best move.} (9... Nxe4 $6 {[%c_effect e4;square;e4;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 10. Nxe4 {is bad for Black, as the knight will soon land on d6.}) 10. Bd3 (10. cxb5 $6 {[%c_effect b5;square;b5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] is bad, since now the light-squared bishop comes to play after} Nxe4 11. Nxe4 cxb5) 10... bxc4 11. Bxc4 Ba6 $1 {[%c_effect a6;square;a6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The exchange of bishops is desirable for Black.} 12. Bxa6 Nxa6 13. Qa4 {My impression is that this is not the most precise move, since the queen is not doing much on a4, a square better suited for the knight.} (13. Na4) (13. Qe2) 13... Qb6 14. Bf4 Rfd8 (14... Qxb2 $2 {[%c_effect b2;square;b2;type;Mistake;persistent;true] is horrible and loses in many ways.} 15. Bd6 {is the simplest.} (15. Qxa6 Qxc3 16. Bd6 {is also good.} Rfd8 17. Rfc1 Qb2 18. Rab1 {trapping the queen.})) (14... Nd5 {is also bad:} 15. Nxd5 $1 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]} cxd5 $6 {[%c_effect d5;square;d5;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true]} 16. Rac1 Rac8 17. Rxc8 Rxc8 18. Rc1 Rxc1+ 19. Bxc1 {This position is much worse for Black than it seems at first sight, since he cannot prevent White's queen from deciding the game.}) (14... c5 {is natural and good. I was expecting this move here and on the next move.} 15. Be5) 15. Be5 Nb4 (15... c5 {Again Black has the chance of changing the pawn structure. I think this is the simplest way to equalize.}) 16. Rfd1 Nbd5 17. Qc2 {The position is a little trickier now. White is preparing Na4, preventing c6-c5, and leaving Black with a passive position.} Bf8 (17... Nxc3 {is interesting.} 18. bxc3 (18. Qxc3 Nd5 {is not dangerous for Black.}) 18... Nd7 {Black is very close to equalizing.} (18... c5 {is also good, although White still retains some very slight pressure after} 19. c4)) 18. Ng5 {A somewhat surprising move. The knight is going to e4, but it looks a bit superficial.} (18. Na4 {is natural, although nothing terrible is happening after} Qb5) 18... Ng4 (18... Nd7 {is even better. Black is perfectly fine after} 19. Bg3 c5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 19. Bg3 Bg7 {Here and on the next moves, Black must seriously consider the subtle 19...Nh6 with the intention of going with the knight to f5.} (19... Nh6 $5 {[%c_effect h6;square;h6;type;Interesting;persistent;true]}) 20. Nf3 (20. Na4 Qb5 21. Nc5 {is slightly better for White.}) 20... Rac8 $6 {[%c_effect c8;square;c8;type;Inaccuracy;persistent;true] Too slow.} (20... Nh6 $1 {[%c_effect h6;square;h6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 21. Ne4 (21. Na4 {is again better for White.} Qb5 22. Nc5) 21... c5 $6 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;Inaccuracy;keyPressed;undefined;persistent;true] This is the last chance to maneuver the g4-knight to f5. Objectively Black may still be able to escape here; a draw is the likely result in a computer game from this position. But in human terms, the position is almost a losing one: Black will need to find a sequence that borders on the impossible in a few moments.} (21... Nh6 $1 {[%c_effect h6;square;h6;type;GreatFind;persistent;true]}) 22. dxc5 $1 {[%c_effect c5;square;c5;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] The most dangerous reaction.} (22. Nxc5 Nge3 {I probably wouldn't even consider this move, but it's stronger than the more natural 22...Bxd4.} (22... Bxd4 23. Nxd4 Qxc5 {with equality.}) 23. fxe3 Nxe3 {The variations are too complicated from now on; suffice to say that Black remains on top.}) 22... Qxb2 23. Qxb2 Bxb2 24. Rab1 Bg7 $2 {[%c_effect g7;square;g7;type;Mistake;persistent;true]} (24... Ngf6 $3 {[%c_effect f6;square;f6;type;Brilliant;persistent;true] This is the almost impossible move mentioned before. The next move is also quite difficult.} 25. Nd6 Nc3 $1 {[%c_effect c3;square;c3;type;GreatFind;persistent;true] Impressive.} 26. Nxc8 Rxc8 27. Rxb2 Nxd1 28. Rb8 Rxb8 29. Bxb8 {Even after all this, the black position still looks dangerous. The computer miraculously manages to defend after} Nd5) 25. Rdc1 {The c-pawn is ready to move forward. Black's position is critical.} Bh6 (25... Bf8 {is more stubborn, but it still looks pretty bad after} 26. h3 Ngf6 27. Nxf6+ Nxf6 28. c6) 26. Rc4 Bf8 {The rook on c4 is actually better than on c1.} 27. c6 (27. h3 {is also very strong:} Ngf6 28. Nxf6+ Nxf6 29. c6 Nd5 30. Rb7 {with a decisive advantage.}) 27... f5 28. Neg5 Re8 29. Rb7 Ne7 {Now Black's position collapses, but it's hard to make recommendations.} 30. h3 Nf6 31. Nd4 {The e6-pawn is falling.} h6 32. Ngxe6 Nxc6 33. Nxf8 Nxd4 34. Rxc8 Rxc8 35. Nxg6 Rc1+ 36. Kh2 Nc6 37. Bf4 Rc2 38. Bxh6 Ne8 39. Ne7+ Kh7 40. Be3 {Another confident performance by Caruana, in my opinion the best chess player of 2023 so far.} 1-0 [Event "Grand Chess Tour | Sinquefield Cup 2023"] [Site "Chess.com"] [Date "2023.11.30"] [Round "9"] [White "Nepomniachtchi, Ian"] [Black "Giri, Anish"] [Result "1/2-1/2"] [ECO "C54"] [WhiteElo "2771"] [BlackElo "2752"] [PlyCount "99"] [Beauty "5635554936328"] [EventDate "2023.??.??"] [TimeControl "40/5400+30:1800+30"] 1. e4 {[%emt 0:00:07]} e5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 2. Nf3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} Nc6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 3. Bc4 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Nf6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 4. d3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Bc5 {[%emt 0:00:49]} 5. O-O {[%emt 0:00:14]} d6 {[%emt 0:00:58]} 6. c3 {[%emt 0:00:13]} a5 {[%emt 0:02:09]} 7. Re1 {[%emt 0:00:24]} O-O {[%emt 0:01:08]} 8. h3 {[%emt 0:00:15]} Be6 {[%emt 0:01:05]} 9. Bb5 {[%emt 0:01:04]} Ba7 {[%emt 0:00:11]} 10. Be3 {[%emt 0:00:18]} Bxe3 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 11. Rxe3 {[%emt 0:00:04]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 12. d4 {[%emt 0:00:08]} Ng6 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 13. Bf1 {[%emt 0:00:05]} h5 {[%emt 0:00:07]} 14. c4 {[%emt 0:00:31]} Nh7 {[%emt 0:00:15]} 15. Nc3 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Ng5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} 16. Nxg5 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Qxg5 {[%emt 0:00:03]} 17. Rg3 {[%emt 0:00:11]} Qh4 {[%emt 0:03:00]} 18. dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:10]} dxe5 {[%emt 0:00:09]} 19. Qb3 {[%emt 0:00:04] The queen starts to put pressure on Black's queenside.} Rab8 {[%emt 0:03:41]} 20. Qb5 {[%emt 0:00:22]} c6 {[%emt 0:08:22]} 21. Qxa5 {[%emt 0:00:12]} Rfd8 {[%emt 0:00:17]} 22. Qb6 {[%emt 0:00:27]} Rd2 {[%emt 0:28:01]} 23. a4 {[%emt 0:00:38]} Qd8 {[%emt 0:10:03]} 24. c5 {[%emt 0:04:44]} ({If White tries to keep the extra pawn with:} 24. Qxd8+ {Black can gain compensation in his active rooks:} Rbxd8 25. b3 Rb2 26. Nd1 Rbd2 27. Nc3 Rb2) 24... Qxb6 {[%emt 0:04:03]} 25. cxb6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} Rxb2 {[%emt 0:00:05]} 26. a5 {[%emt 0:03:55]} Ra8 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 27. a6 {[%emt 0:02:25]} Rxb6 {[%emt 0:05:29]} 28. Na4 {[%emt 0:00:46]} Rbxa6 {[%emt 0:02:00]} 29. Bxa6 {[%emt 0:00:06]} Rxa6 {[%emt 0:00:02]} 30. Rga3 {[%emt 0:01:59] Despite the imbalance, the position is still level. White will not allow Black to get his passers marching down the board.} Ra5 {[%emt 0:01:17]} 31. Nb2 {[%emt 0:01:31]} Rb5 {[%emt 0:01:41]} 32. Nd3 {[%emt 0:00:19]} b6 {[%emt 0:01:26]} 33. g3 {[%emt 0:02:34] Choosing activity over material. White's dynamic pieces and center control provide adequate compensation.} Bxh3 {[%emt 0:01:47]} 34. f4 {[%emt 0:00:32]} exf4 {[%emt 0:00:48]} 35. gxf4 {[%emt 0:01:19]} Bg4 {[%emt 0:06:52]} 36. Kf2 {[%emt 0:02:27]} Kh7 {[%emt 0:01:04]} 37. Rc1 {[%emt 0:02:41]} Ne7 {[%emt 0:11:24]} 38. Ra7 {[%emt 0:08:12]} Rb3 {[%emt 0:07:16]} 39. Ne5 {[%emt 0:05:40]} Nc8 {[%emt 0:00:21]} 40. Ra4 {[%emt 0:00:32]} f6 {[%emt 0:02:56]} 41. Nxg4 {[%emt 0:39:07]} ({If} 41. Nxc6 {White has to be careful after} Nd6 42. e5 Rb2+ 43. Kg1 Nf5 {with threats looming on the kingside. If, for example,} 44. Ra7 $4 {[%c_effect a7;square;a7;type;Blunder;persistent;true]} Bf3 45. Rc3 Rg2+ 46. Kf1 Ng3+ 47. Ke1 Re2+ 48. Kd1 Re3+ 49. Kd2 Rxc3 50. Kxc3 Bxc6) 41... hxg4 {[%emt 0:30:02]} 42. f5 {[%emt 0:01:03]} Nd6 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 43. Rg1 {[%emt 0:00:00]} b5 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 44. Rd4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Nc4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 45. Rxg4 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Rb2+ {[%emt 0:00:00]} 46. Ke1 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Rb1+ {[%emt 0:00:00]} 47. Ke2 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Rb2+ {[%emt 0:00:00]} 48. Ke1 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Rb1+ {[%emt 0:00:00]} 49. Ke2 {[%emt 0:00:00]} Rb2+ {[%emt 0:00:00]} 50. Ke1 {[%emt 0:00:00]} 1/2-1/2