2nd UzChess Cup Round 4: Praggnanandhaa Beats Sindarov, Joins Abdusattorov in Lead

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R Praggnanandhaa bounced back in style by defeating Javokhir Sindarov in Round 4 of the 2nd UzChess Cup Masters 2025. With this win, he joined Nodirbek Abdusattorov at the top of the standings with 3 points out of 4.

A Missed Chance, Then a Comeback

Initially, Praggnanandhaa missed a chance early in the game. But he quickly regrouped and took advantage of Sindarov’s mistake in the Semi-Slav opening.

A smart idea of placing his queen on c1 helped him coordinate his pieces and create powerful connected passed pawns. He allowed a bit of counterplay, but it was never enough for Sindarov to recover.

With this victory, Praggnanandhaa is back at World No. 5 in the live ratings. In his interview, he said ratings are just numbers — every opponent is strong.

Abdusattorov vs Arjun: An Even Fight

In a high-profile battle between World Rapid Champions, Arjun Erigaisi drew against Nodirbek Abdusattorov. Despite a passed pawn reaching c2, Abdusattorov couldn’t break through. Arjun defended solidly, and the game ended peacefully.

Parham Gets His Revenge

Parham Maghsoodloo avenged last year’s loss by beating defending champion Nodirbek Yakubboev. White launched a kingside attack, but Parham calmly defended and counterattacked. A mistake by Yakubboev on move 33 allowed Parham to go for a decisive king hunt.

Aravindh Holds Nepomniachtchi

Aravindh Chithambaram played his first Classical game against Ian Nepomniachtchi. He spotted a neat tactical idea with 24.Bc5 and reached a queen endgame.

The position was equal, and both players agreed to a draw.

Rapport vs Vokhidov: A Quiet Draw

This was the first Classical encounter between Richard Rapport and Shamsiddin Vokhidov. Neither side took serious risks, and the game ended in a draw.

Challengers & Futures Update

In the Challengers section, GM Nikolas Theodorou (GRE) and GM Andrew Hong (USA) continue to lead with 3.5/4 each. In the Futures section, GM Ortik Nigmatov (UZB) stays in sole lead after defeating GM Robert Ruck (HUN).

Standings After Round 4 (Masters)

  • 1st: Nodirbek Abdusattorov – 3 points

  • 1st: R Praggnanandhaa – 3 points

  • 3rd: Arjun Erigaisi – 2.5 points

  • 3rd: Parham Maghsoodloo – 2.5 points

Replay Live stream of UzChess Cup Round 4

Time Control & Prizes

  • Time control (Masters): 90 minutes for 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest, with 30-second increment.

  • Total Prize Fund: $121,500

    • Masters: $80,000

    • Challengers: $25,000

    • Futures: $11,500

    • Open: $5,000

Round 5 starts at 3 p.m. local time (3:30 p.m. IST).

Photos: Shahid Ahmed, UzChess Cup
Source: CHESSBASE

 

Warrior Chess Academy


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