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R. Praggnanandhaa, an Indian grandmaster, played against World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen.
Magnus Carlsen, who was recovering from food illness, preferred to play a short draw, which R. Praggnanandhaa did not mind. As a consequence of Wednesday’s easy 30-move draw, the World Cup will be decided in tie-break games in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Thursday.
The second classic time-control game was the shortest for both competitors. Carlsen’s opening strategy, in which all four knights are out of the starting blocks within the first three moves, frequently results in an equal endgame. The string of exchanges that followed left little question that the game was coming to an end soon.
By the time the players had completed the required 30 moves before making a draw offer, each possessed a bishop and six pawns. The early conclusion, with both players having more than an hour on the clock, provided the finalists enough time to return on Thursday with fresh vigour.
For the record, Magnus Carlsen has played just four tie-break games in the competition, all against young German Vincent Keymer, whereas Praggnanandhaa has played two against Hikaru Nakamura, seven against Arjun Erigiasi, and four against Fabiano Caruana.
“It doesn’t matter,” Praggnanandha remarked when asked if he has more experience in tie-break games than Carlsen in this World Cup. “In any format, including bullet (1-minute chess games), Magnus is the favorite.” Anything may happen, so I’ll do my best and see what happens.”
When asked about the short draw, Praggnanandhaa explained, “It was mostly due to his poor health because it is very rare to see Magnus playing for a draw with white (pieces).”
Magnus Carlsen Vs Pragg Draw 2 Game
“I realized after his fifth movement (when Magnus Carlsen went for the knight swap) that he just wanted to draw.” I’m also worn out. Now I can focus on tomorrow [Thursday] and rest afterward.”
Praggnanandhaa commented on the first game, saying, “It didn’t feel like he had a lot of energy, but I didn’t think he was unwell during the game.” I’m hoping he’ll be OK by Thursday.
“I want to rest today so I can go to work tomorrow with a clear mindset.” It’s critical since I’ve played in a number of tie-break games here. So I know it might take a lot of games, even if they are short. I have to be ready to deal with everything.”
Magnus Carlsen stated that he was feeling a little better than the day before. “However, I didn’t feel like I had enough energy for a full fight.” So I decided to take another day off. I’m hoping to feel better by Thursday.”
“He has already played a lot of tie-break games over some highly skilled players,” says the World No. 1 remarked of his teenage challenger. I’m aware of his strength. Obviously, I’ll have a strong opportunity if I have the energy and a nice day.”
Later, the struggle for third place was also pushed to Thursday, when Fabiano Caruana overcame local hope Nijat Asabov in 59 moves to avenge his setback on Tuesday.
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