Tech Mahindra Global Chess League: Upsets and Dominance as PBG Alaskan Knights Extend Lead

The Tech Mahindra Global Chess League witnessed a day of shocking upsets as the favourites stumbled in two matches, with Magnus Carlsen and Alireza Firouzja suffering unexpected defeats. The PBG Alaskan Knights continued their dominant run with a commanding victory over the Ganges Grandmasters, solidifying their position at the top of the standings.

With six victories in seven matches, PBG Alaskan Knights are comfortably leading the league with 18 match points – six more than their closest competitors, Triveni and Alpine Sg Pipers. With just three matches remaining before the knockout stage, PBG only need one more victory to secure a spot in the finals.

Despite their strong position, PBG’s top board Anish Giri remains cautious, acknowledging that the job is not done yet. However, he expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance so far.

In a stunning upset earlier in the day, the upGrad Mumba Masters defeated the favoured Alpine Sg Pipers, with Magnus Carlsen suffering a critical blunder that led to his defeat. The Mumba Masters capitalized on this momentum to secure a dominant win, dealing a major blow to the Pipers’ chances of catching up with the league leaders.

In another surprising turn of events, the winners of season one, Triveni Continental Kings, were defeated by the American Gambits, with Alireza Firouzja suffering his first loss in the tournament against Hikaru Nakamura.

The day concluded with PBG Alaskan Knights confidently defeating Ganges Grandmasters, further solidifying their position at the top of the standings. With just three rounds left, PBG looks almost unstoppable as they aim for a spot in the finals.

Despite today’s defeats, Triveni remains in second place, while Alpine Sg Pipers hold on to third place in the standings. The league remains wide open as the teams gear up for the remaining matches before the knockout stage.

Overall, the sixth day of the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League was filled with unexpected twists and turns, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent of the players as they battle for supremacy on the chessboard.