Indian players continue their excellent performance in the Chess World Cup. Top-seeded Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi defeated Uzbekistan's Shamsiddin Vokhidov in just 30 moves to advance to the next round.
SPORTS NEWS: Indian Grandmasters continue their stellar performance in the ongoing FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 in India. Young stars Arjun Erigaisi and veteran Pentala Harikrishna have secured their spots in the next round by winning their respective matches. Meanwhile, current World Champion Gukesh D, R Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi drew their matches played with black pieces.
This World Cup, held in Goa, features 206 top chess players from 82 countries. The competition trophy has been dedicated in the name of India's legendary player Viswanathan Anand. The tournament commenced on October 31st and will run until November 27th, 2025. With a total prize fund of 17.58 crore rupees, it is considered the largest chess event to date.
Arjun Erigaisi's Strategic Victory
India's rising star and top-ranked player Arjun Erigaisi (Arjun Erigaisi) defeated Uzbekistan's Shamsiddin Vokhidov in just 30 moves to enter the next round. This match was an example of Arjun's calm, precise, and well-planned moves. Arjun had received a bye in the first round and gained momentum by winning both his matches in the second round.
In the match against Vokhidov, Arjun maintained control over the board from the initial stages and gave no opportunities to his opponent. This victory further strengthens the confidence of the Indian contingent.
Harikrishna's Experienced Victory
India's veteran Grandmaster Pentala Harikrishna (Pentala Harikrishna) defeated Belgium's Daniel Dardha in just 25 moves to secure his spot in the fourth round. Harikrishna played in a classical variation, putting pressure on his opponent, which led Daniel to accept defeat quickly. After the match, Harikrishna stated,
'I had prepared myself in a new way for this tournament, and this strategy proved successful. Some moves went as planned, and in others, my opponent misjudged. One cannot be careless for even a moment in the game; that is my mantra.'
His victory is a testament to the experience and depth of the Indian chess team, which presents a balanced mix of youth and veterans.
World Champion Gukesh D Draws, Still in the Race
World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju (Gukesh D) drew his match against his opponent while playing with black pieces. Meanwhile, young stars R Praggnanandhaa and Vidit Gujrathi also drew their respective matches. To secure their spot in the next round, they will now need to win with white pieces. Experts suggest that Gukesh played a strategic draw to be able to apply pressure with white pieces in the second game. His calm and composed playing style indicates consistent performance at the top level.
