Tiebreak Drama Rocks the 2025 FIDE World Cup in Goa: Niemann and Oro Out
FIDE World Cup – What a day it was in Goa! When Magnus Carlsen, the former World Champion and 2023 World Cup winner, joins the live broadcast, you know something big is about to happen. And the tiebreaks didn’t disappoint — they had everything: upsets, nerves, and wild finishes that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
The atmosphere in the hall was electric. Seven matches went all the way to blitz, and one even ended in a dramatic Armageddon!
After some post-elimination talk from Ian Nepomniachtchi earlier in the tournament, Indian GM Vidit Gujrathi addressed it calmly after his win.
“The conditions are fine here,” said Vidit, who had just knocked out Argentine prodigy Faustino Oro. “It’s easy to complain when emotions run high, but honestly, there’s no issue. The organizers have done a great job.”
The Round 2 tiebreaks began officially with a ceremonial first move by Mahesh Candolkar, President of the Goa Chess Federation, and Dr. V. Candavelou, Chief Secretary of Goa.
Rapid 15/10: Niemann Shocked by Lodici
The biggest upset of the day came early. American GM Hans Niemann (2738), the 10th seed, was eliminated by Italy’s GM Lorenzo Lodici (2560). After two draws in classical play, Lodici struck in the first 15-minute rapid game.
Niemann miscalculated in a tense endgame, playing 72…Rg1?, which lost instantly to 73.f6 Rf1 74.Be3!. Just one move — but it sealed his fate.
Frustrated, Niemann reviewed the lines alone before quietly leaving the venue.
Meanwhile, India’s Vidit Gujrathi ended Faustino Oro’s dream run, winning in the rapid games.
“I was nervous,” said Vidit. “Faustino is very talented and strong in rapid, but I prepared well and stayed calm.”
Despite his exit, the young Argentine gained fans worldwide for his fearless play.
Also advancing were Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, Sam Sevian, Radoslaw Wojtaszek, and several others, who all booked their spots in Round 3.
Rapid 10/10: Tough Fights and Fine Margins
The next set of games, with 10 minutes + 10 seconds, saw only three matches decided.
GM Gabriel Sargissian and GM Shant Sargsyan both advanced after tight battles. Former World Rapid Champion Daniil Dubov also made it through, defeating GM Jinshi Bai after Bai’s mistake 12…g4?, which trapped his knight.
Blitz 5/3: Praggnanandhaa Survives a Thriller
Seven matches went to blitz, and the most intense featured India’s GM R. Praggnanandhaa against GM Temur Kuybokarov.
Pragg came from behind to level the score and then clinched the win after a rollercoaster final game. Kuybokarov missed several winning chances and blundered in a completely winning position.
Elsewhere, GM S. Narayanan eliminated GM Nikita Vitiugov after six consecutive draws, showing nerves of steel in the blitz rounds.
Blitz 3/2: Adams’ Experience Shines
Two matches went to the final 3+2 stage. The veteran duel between GM Michael Adams and GM Ivan Cheparinov was pure class. Adams won both games, proving once again that experience matters under pressure.
Armageddon: Svane’s Big Moment
The final decider of the day was an Armageddon clash between GM Rauf Mamedov and GM Rasmus Svane.
Under the new bidding system, Svane chose 3:13 minutes to secure White. His strategy worked perfectly — he turned a small edge into victory, notching one of the biggest wins of his career.
What’s Next
Only 64 players remain as Round 3 begins. With three Candidates spots up for grabs, every game now feels like a final.
Round 3, Game 1 starts on November 7 at 3 PM local time. Fans can watch live commentary by GMs Evgenij Miroshnichenko and Jan Gustafsson on the official FIDE YouTube channel.
Want to catch the games in person? Tickets are available on the official website: worldcup2025.fide.com
Photos: Michal Walusza, Eteri Kublashvili, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
