2nd UzChess Cup Round 5: Abdusattorov Takes Lead Again

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Nodirbek Abdusattorov bounced back to take the sole lead with 4/5 after defeating Aravindh Chithambaram in 2nd UzChess Cup Round 5. Aravindh gave up a central pawn early but never recovered enough compensation.

Game Highlights

Parham vs Praggnanandhaa:

Parham improved his head-to-head record against Praggnanandhaa to 4.5-2.5 in classical games. The Iranian built a strong position, and though he blundered late, Praggnanandhaa failed to spot the saving move.

Eventually, Parham won in a knight vs bishop endgame after 60.Ke5?? allowed a winning breakthrough.

Abdusattorov vs Aravindh:

Abdusattorov punished Aravindh’s premature pawn sacrifice. Black’s pieces lacked coordination and a poor king move (22…Kf7) sealed his fate. Abdusattorov now leads the Masters group.

Vokhidov vs Arjun:

Arjun Erigaisi earned his second win after a patient buildup. He used a passed pawn and a tactical bait (taking a b5-pawn) to break through and win convincingly.

Sindarov vs Rapport:

Sindarov built up big pressure with a passed d-pawn. Rapport was under heavy positional stress and couldn’t recover despite resisting for long.

Nepomniachtchi vs Yakubboev:

This was the first classical clash between the two. The game was mostly balanced and ended in a quiet draw. Nepomniachtchi seemed unhappy with his third draw of the event.

Challengers and Futures Sections

All five games in the Challengers group ended in draws. GM Nikolas Theodorou and GM Andrew Hong continue to lead with 4/5.

In the Futures section, GM Ortik Nigmatov suffered his first loss of the event, losing to GM Abdimalik Abdisalimov. However, Nigmatov still holds the top spot with 3.5/5.

Current Standings (Top 3)

  1. Abdusattorov – 4/5

  2. Parham – 3.5/5

  3. Arjun – 3.5/5

Replay Live stream of UzChess Cup Round 5

Round 5 Summary

  • Total prize pool: $121,500

  • Time control: 90 minutes for first 40 moves, then 30 minutes + 30 sec increment

  • Round 6 begins tomorrow at 3 p.m. local time / 3:30 p.m. IST

Follow Warrior Chess Academy for full coverage of the UzChess Cup!

Photos: Shahid Ahmed, UzChess Cup
Source: CHESSBASE

 

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