New Delhi: Magnus Carlsen showcased why he is the best player in the world across all the formats after he beat world champion D Gukesh of India in the first round of Norway Chess to take full three points on Monday. Carlsen was impressive in the match as he unnerved the Indian chess player in his first classical game against the Norwegian since winning the world title last year in Singapore.
Carlsen employed the Jobava London, a rarely -used opening move to stun Gukesh, who was otherwise looking impressive in the match. Gukesh, playing with black pieces, did not fall into the trap and instead neutralised the white’s advantage by the 11th move, putting the world champion into trouble.
But the five-time champion, who has predominately moved to the shorter formats, such as Rapid and Blitz and more recently Freestyle chess, showcased the entire world that he has not lost touch with the Classical format, winning a contest which lasted for over four hours and 56 moves.
Arjun Erigaisi advances ahead
In a game earlier, another Indian Arjun Erigaisi, who is also featuring in the six-player round-robin Open category, impressed with his style of play in the opening round beating the Chinese opponent Wei Yi in Armageddon after the two had agreed to a draw.
Erigaisi, ranked number four in the world, was the first to take the opening points by beating China’s number one player Wei in Armageddon after the two agreed to a draw after 54 moves. The Indian chess player playing black, played aggressively to take the match to a draw and then beat his opponent on time in Armageddon. By virtue of this result, Erigaisi is on 1.5 points after the opening round, while Wei has one point.
(With PTI inputs)
Carlsen was impressive in the match as he unnerved the Indian chess player in his first classical game against the Norwegian since winning the world title last year in Singapore. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
