Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi registered a vital victory against the young prodigy Alireza Firouzja in the sixth round of the prestigious FIDE Candidates 2024 tournament. This win propels Gujrathi to three points, boosting his confidence and propelling him up the leaderboard after a string of challenging matches.
Vidit Gujrathi: From Even Ground to Advantage
The initial stages of the game were a balanced affair, with both players maneuvering strategically. However, a critical misstep by Firouzja on move 11 handed the advantage to Gujrathi. Capitalizing on this opening, the Indian GM castled to the longer side, solidifying his position.
Firouzja’s Attack Backfires, Gujrathi Maintains Control
Firouzja attempted to counter with an aggressive queen push to f2. However, this bold move proved detrimental, as it relinquished control to Gujrathi. The Indian maestro capitalized mercilessly, forcing his opponent into a series of errors.
Time Management and Tenacity Seal the Deal
Despite being under time pressure, Gujrathi displayed remarkable composure. He meticulously extended the game past move 40, triggering an extra 30 minutes on his clock. This strategic move proved decisive, as Firouzja, facing a dwindling timeframe and an increasingly disadvantaged position, opted for resignation.
A Confidence Booster and Strategic Insight
This victory is a significant turning point for Gujrathi in the Candidates tournament. It not only boosts his score and standings but also injects a much-needed dose of confidence. The way he handled Firouzja’s ambitious play and managed his time effectively showcases his strategic acumen and mental fortitude. With the competition still wide open, Gujrathi’s newfound momentum could propel him further in the race to become the next challenger for the World Chess Championship crown.
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