FIDE World Cup Round 5 Game 2: Drama, Defeat, and Rising Stars in Goa
The FIDE World Cup in Goa once again delivered a day full of surprises, tension, and world-class chess. Round after round, the tournament has showcased brilliant strategy, strong nerves, and unexpected twists. Today was no different.
Some matches were calm and technical. Others were emotional battles that pushed players to their limits. As tiebreaks approach, every move now has the power to change a career.
A Tough Day for Armenian Chess
Two legends of Armenian chess were eliminated today. Levon Aronian, a former Armenian star and now representing the USA, lost after a tense game full of small mistakes. Moments later, Gabriel Sargissian, known for his team heroics and strong preparation, was also knocked out.
Their exit marks the end of an era. For nearly 20 years, they were symbols of strength, resilience, and brilliant team play.
Uzbekistan Shows Incredible Fighting Spirit
If anyone needed proof of why Uzbekistan became Olympiad champions, they got that reminder today. The Uzbek players showed calm nerves, strong defense, and perfect decision-making under pressure.
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Javokhir Sindarov safely held a draw and advanced.
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Nodirbek Yakubboev won with precise and powerful play.
This young team continues to look fearless, confident, and incredibly mature.
FIDE World Cup – Opening Ceremony and Quick Draws
Before the round began, GM Humpy Koneru, India’s two-time Women’s World Rapid Champion, made the ceremonial first move for GM Daniil Dubov.
The first two games to finish were exactly what many expected — solid, risk-free draws:
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Dubov followed deep Grünfeld theory against Sam Shankland, aiming directly for tiebreaks.
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Aleksey Grebnev vs. Andrey Esipenko played a clean, symmetrical Queen’s Gambit Accepted, with both avoiding risk before the rapid battles.
Both matches now head to tiebreaks, where the faster time controls may decide everything.
Harikrishna vs. Martínez Alcántara — A Balanced Battle
Indian star Pentala Harikrishna created pressure using an offbeat King’s Indian Attack. However, José Eduardo Martínez Alcántara defended flawlessly.
This match heads to tiebreaks, and it’s a difficult one to predict:
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Martínez is a blitz and rapid specialist,
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Harikrishna is extremely calm and experienced under pressure.
Anything can happen tomorrow.
Arjun Erigaisi Eliminates Levon Aronian
One of the most dramatic games of the day came from Arjun Erigaisi vs. Levon Aronian. Aronian missed a hidden tactic in time trouble. A few moves later, a blunder sealed his fate.
Arjun played confidently and grabbed his second chance with precision. He later said in his interview:
“When he offered me a draw, my confidence increased.”
A composed and ruthless win by India’s top talent.
Yakubboev Knocks Out Sargissian
Sargissian defended under constant pressure, but one mistake in a tough position was enough. After 29…Nc6?, Yakubboev immediately struck with a brilliant sequence and converted a winning endgame using his powerful bishops. A painful end to a great run.
Sindarov Advances Against Svane
Sindarov chose the reliable Open Spanish and only needed a draw to qualify. Even when Frederik Svane won a pawn, Sindarov defended with excellent endgame technique and secured the result he needed.
Wei Yi Wins Again and Moves Closer to the Candidates
Chinese superstar Wei Yi continues his brilliant run. Facing Samuel Sevian, he punished an early mistake and converted an extra pawn smoothly.
Wei Yi is quietly becoming one of the favorites to reach the 2026 Candidates Tournament in Cyprus. His technique, calm play, and sharp tactical eye are thrilling fans worldwide.
Liem Saves a Lost Position Against Donchenko
The final game of the day was pure drama. Le Quang Liem, former World Blitz Champion, saved a completely losing rook endgame against Alexander Donchenko. Donchenko missed the winning move 70…Rg3!, and after that, the draw was inevitable.
Now, Liem goes into the tiebreaks with a huge psychological advantage.
Tiebreaks Tomorrow — Where Nerves Decide Everything
Rapid and blitz games are coming next, and they will decide who survives Round 5.
FIDE World Cup Round 5 Tiebreaks:
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Pentala Harikrishna vs. José Eduardo Martínez Alcántara
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Andrey Esipenko vs. Aleksey Grebnev
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Le Quang Liem vs. Alexander Donchenko
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Daniil Dubov vs. Sam Shankland
📅 Tiebreak Date: November 16
🕒 Time: 3 PM local time
🎥 Live Broadcast: FIDE YouTube Channel (with GM Peter Leko & GM Jan Gustafsson)
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
