FIDE World Cup: Quarterfinal Drama as Three Matches Head to Tiebreaks
The FIDE World Cup tension is at its peak. Players entered the hall quietly, some arriving just seconds before the clocks started. Spectators filled the venue, hoping to witness history. With only four semifinal spots available, every move mattered.
All four games were drawn today. This means three matches will be decided in tiebreaks tomorrow. The only player already in the semifinals is GM Nodirbek Yakkuboev, who qualified after defeating Alexander Donchenko in yesterday’s game.
Before the round began, the ceremonial first move was played by Mr. Anurag Singh Thakur, former Sports Minister of India, Member of Parliament, and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Coal and Mines. His move marked the beginning of the game between Arjun Erigaisi and Wei Yi.
Quarterfinal Game 2 Results
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José Eduardo Martínez Alcántara ½–½ Javokhir Sindarov
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Arjun Erigaisi ½–½ Wei Yi
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Andrey Esipenko ½–½ Sam Shankland
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Alexander Donchenko ½–½ Nodirbek Yakkuboev
Yakkuboev Advances After Holding Donchenko
Donchenko came into today’s game in a must-win situation. He tried hard to create chances and even gained a time advantage in the opening. The game followed the Queen’s Gambit Declined: Exchange Variation.
However, a risky decision with 22.f3? allowed Yakkuboev to take over the position with strong counterplay. Black stayed active, kept pressure, and eventually reached a stable endgame.
Donchenko survived the complications, but a draw meant elimination. Yakkuboev defended carefully and became the first semifinalist of the 2025 FIDE World Cup.
Arjun Erigaisi vs Wei Yi: Missed Chance in a Sharp Battle
As India’s last remaining player, Arjun Erigaisi continues to play with impressive calmness. Today, with the White pieces, he surprised Wei Yi with a fresh idea in the Queen’s Gambit Declined.
The game got complicated after 18…c5, leading to sharp tactics. Experts praised Arjun’s move 20.Qe2, calling it “strong and unexpected.” It put pressure on Wei Yi, who spent more than 30 minutes deciding his reply.
Arjun had a winning idea with 24.Bxd5!, which would have given him a free pawn and a clear advantage. Instead, he played 24.Qd2?, and Wei Yi immediately equalized. After that, both players settled for a draw.
This game showed how one small decision can change everything. The matchup now moves to tiebreaks with high expectations.
Sindarov vs Martínez: Theory Draw in 20 Minutes
This game was the quickest of the day. Playing the Four Knights Spanish, both players followed a known draw line and ended the game in just 20 minutes.
Martínez, who had White and strong momentum from previous rounds, chose a safe strategy. Saving energy for tiebreaks can sometimes be the smartest decision in long events like the World Cup.
Shankland vs Esipenko: A Strategic Standstill
This game began with a clever twist. With Black, Sam Shankland used an unusual move order in the Italian setup to avoid Andrey Esipenko’s preparation.
Although Esipenko achieved a solid position, he could not find a breakthrough. After patient maneuvering and sensible exchanges, the players agreed to a draw after 32 moves.
Both players are extremely strong in faster time controls. Shankland has already eliminated big names like Vidit, Rapport, and Dubov. Esipenko knocked out the pre-tournament favorite, Vincent Keymer. Their tiebreak showdown is set to be fierce.
High Stakes Ahead: Tiebreaks on November 19
With three semifinal spots still open, tomorrow promises intense chess and huge pressure. Faster formats often bring unexpected results, sharp tactics, and emotional finishes.
📌 Tiebreaks begin on November 19 at 3 PM local time.
📺 Fans can watch live on the official FIDE YouTube channel, with expert commentary by GMs Jan Gustafsson and Peter Leko.
Get ready for fast moves, nerves of steel, and unforgettable battles!
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
