The highly anticipated FIDE Chess World Cup final between reigning World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and 18-year-old Indian prodigy R Praggnanandhaa has yet to meet expectations due to fatigue. However, as the tie-breakers approach, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion in Baku, Azerbaijan on August 24.
Third-Place Drama: Caruana's Sensational Comeback
In the battle for third place, World No. 3 Fabiano Caruana made a remarkable comeback against local hopeful Nijat Abasov, securing a white-piece victory and forcing tie-breakers.
Draws in Classical Time Control Games
In the main event, GM Praggnanandhaa and GM Carlsen played to draws in their classical time control games on Tuesday and Wednesday, prolonging the suspense.
Day 1: Praggnanandhaa's Solid Defense
On the initial day of the final, Praggnanandhaa, playing with white pieces, held his ground against Carlsen. Post-match, Carlsen cited physical fitness concerns, disclosing a previous bout of food poisoning.
Day 2: Carlsen's Defensive Strategy
In the second classical game, Carlsen surprised observers with a defensive opening move. Despite having the white pieces, he aimed to reach the tie-breakers, granting himself extra recovery time. Praggnanandhaa exhibited his trademark tenacity with the black pieces, denying Carlsen opportunities.
Deciphering the Tie-Breaker Formats
The final heads into tie-breakers. Both players, seeking their inaugural World Cup titles in their first final appearances, will begin with two rapid games using a '25+10' time control—25 minutes per player with a 10-second increment per move.
If a tie persists after the initial rapid games, two more rapid games with a '10+10' time control will ensue. Should parity persist, a third set of rapid games with a '3+5' time control will follow. If the deadlock remains after these rapid sets, blitz games with a '3+2' time control will determine the victor.
Rapid Showdown: Carlsen vs. Praggnanandhaa
The final phase promises intrigue as Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa have never met in rapid blitz games on the board. Carlsen holds a favourable record in head-to-head rapid matches with 7 wins, 5 draws, and only 3 losses to Praggnanandhaa.
Battle Fatigue and Determination
The outcome hinges on both players' conditions as they've voiced fatigue in the taxing Baku tournament. Carlsen's struggle with food poisoning is evident, while Praggnanandhaa has played 28 matches—9 more than Carlsen in the FIDE Chess World Cup 2023.
Praggnanandhaa's Rapid Resilience
Praggnanandhaa, with an ELO rating of 2723 in rapid, has showcased his resilience in tie-breakers. His recent victories against strong opponents in tie-break scenarios underscore his tenacity under pressure.
Historic Opportunity for Pragg
Praggnanandhaa's journey to the final involved triumphing in multiple tie-breakers, including battles against World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura and World No. 3 Fabiano Caruana. He stands at the threshold of history, aiming to become the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to claim the coveted title.
The generational clash between Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa is poised for an enthralling conclusion in the upcoming tie-breakers.
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