FIDE World Cup 2025 Semifinals: Game 2 Ends in a Draw, Tiebreaks Will Decide Everything
The semifinals of the FIDE World Cup 2025 in Goa continued with another tense day of classical chess. Both games followed deep preparation, both players fought hard, and once again, no one managed to win. With two more draws on the board, the finalists will now be decided only in tomorrow’s tiebreaks.
The ceremonial first moves were made by Mr. Sanjay Dhivre (IRS) and Mrs. Bhagyahree Dhivare (IAS), adding elegance to an already intense match day.
Sindarov vs Yakubboev: A Quick Draw Between Uzbek Teammates
The all-Uzbek clash between Javokhir Sindarov and Nodirbek Yakubboev finished first. Both players know each other extremely well and entered a line that offered very limited winning chances. After subtle opening play, the position quickly became equal. They shook hands on move 31 in a calm endgame, saving their real fight for the tiebreaks.
Esipenko vs Wei Yi: A Close Fight with Missed Chances
The second game of the day carried more tension. Andrey Esipenko came better prepared against Wei Yi, especially after Wei admitted yesterday that he was “lucky” to draw their first game. Esipenko used deep preparation in the Petrov Defence and even surprised Wei Yi with older lines like 7.Bf4 and the rare 10.Be2.
At one critical moment, White had a practical chance to play 20.f4, which would have forced Wei to find tough defensive moves. Instead, Esipenko chose the safer 20.f3, allowing Black to equalize. Wei later set up an impressive “Alekhine’s gun” formation, but with all heavy pieces traded, the position became fully balanced. The draw was confirmed after a repetition of moves.
Sindarov’s Bold Idea and Yakubboev’s Careful Choice
Sindarov opened with the Four Knights Spanish, which his teammate had faced earlier in the tournament. Very early, Yakubboev hesitated but chose the Rubinstein Variation (4…Nd4). Sindarov replied with the solid 5.Nxd4, choosing a structure known to be safe but not very ambitious.
One key moment came after 9…c6, instead of the more daring 9…0-0, which would allow sharp play where Black sacrifices a pawn for activity. By avoiding complications, Yakubboev allowed White some pressure, especially after 11.Qh5!. But after long thinking and precise defense, he equalized and steered the game to a balanced endgame.
This game showed high accuracy, calm nerves, and trust in preparation — exactly what we expect from two teammates facing elimination.
Fatigue, Pressure, and What Comes Next
The players have been competing for nearly a month. Hours of daily preparation and long tension-filled rounds are starting to show. Today’s solid approach from both boards reflects the pressure and fatigue of players fighting for a Candidates spot.
Tomorrow, the real battle begins. Faster time controls mean less theory and more instinct. Only one Uzbek will reach the final. Only two players will qualify for the Candidates. And the others must fight again — this time for third place and the final qualification spot.
You can watch the action live on the official FIDE YouTube channel, with expert commentary from GMs Jan Gustafsson and Peter Leko.
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
