FIDE World Cup: Esipenko Leads the Battle for Third, While Sindarov and Wei Yi Start Even
The final stage of the FIDE World Cup has arrived after 23 days and seven intense rounds. Two big matches are now deciding the last prizes:
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Wei Yi vs Javokhir Sindarov – fighting for the title and the $120,000 first prize
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Andrey Esipenko vs Nodirbek Yakubboev – battling for third place and the final Candidates spot
The atmosphere in the hall is tense, as every move now carries huge importance.
🏆 Spotlight on the Anand Trophy
A new addition brightened the playing hall — the Viswanathan Anand Trophy.
This was the first time it was displayed on stage, catching the eyes of cameras, spectators, and even the players.
The ceremonial first move was made by Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist. A perfect match for the board where Wei Yi and Sindarov, both past Olympiad gold winners, were seated.
♟️ Game 1 Overview
🔥 Esipenko vs Yakubboev: Esipenko Strikes Back
After painful semifinal defeats for both players, the fight for third place turned emotional. Esipenko showed the best way to recover from a loss — play strong chess the very next day.
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The game began as an Open Sicilian, turning into the Four Knights variation.
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Yakubboev spent a lot of time early, hinting at shaky preparation.
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Esipenko gained the advantage and kept increasing the pressure.
A critical moment appeared after 15.Nd6, which engines show as strong for White. Although Esipenko didn’t choose the most accurate path, he still reached a comfortable position.
In the endgame, inaccuracies from Black made the defense tough. Yakubboev played 32…h5?, and Esipenko’s position quickly became winning. After a precise sequence, Yakubboev resigned on move 38.
Esipenko shared his recovery secret after yesterday’s heartbreak: a relaxing dinner, time with his team, and an uplifting Arsenal win that boosted his mood!
Now Yakubboev must strike back tomorrow with the White pieces.
🤝 Sindarov vs Wei Yi: A Balanced Fight for the Title
The title match between Wei Yi and Sindarov began with a deep strategic clash. Both players are already Candidates, but the World Cup title and massive prize money are still at stake.
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Wei Yi again chose his favourite Petroff Defense.
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Sindarov replied with a Modern Attack, entering new territory.
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Both played quickly, showing strong preparation.
The turning point came when Sindarov played 22.Rb1? instead of capturing on c5. Wei Yi had a chance to press with 24…Rxf4!, but decided to play solidly with 24…Bxe4, heading into an equal opposite-colored bishops endgame.
Wei Yi explained later that he saw the stronger line but preferred “a safe result with Black.” The game ended in a draw.
🔁 What’s Next?
Tomorrow, the players switch colours, and new opening ideas are expected. The race for the World Cup crown and the final Candidates spot continues!
🎥 Follow Live Coverage
Watch all the action with expert insights from GM Jan Gustafsson and GM Peter Leko on the official FIDE YouTube Channel.
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
