World Championship Challenger Gukesh Holds Caruana to Draw in Superbet Classic Chess Tournament

World Championship challenger Grandmaster D. Gukesh played a thrilling draw with tournament leader Fabiano Caruana in the seventh round of the Superbet Classic chess tournament in Bucharest. The top seed from the United States remains in the lead with 4.5 points, followed closely by Gukesh, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Alireza Firouzja, all half a point behind.

In another round filled with draws, Praggnanandhaa also secured a draw with Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia, maintaining the status quo at the top of the leaderboard. With just two rounds remaining in the $3,50,000 prize money tournament, the competition is heating up.

Gukesh’s strategic choice of the Italian opening gave him an advantage against Caruana, but the American was able to hold his ground and secure a draw after 62 moves. Praggnanandhaa also put up a strong performance against Nepomniachtchi, surprising the Russian with his preparation and securing a draw.

The upcoming rounds will be crucial in determining the final outcome of the tournament, with Caruana facing Praggnanandhaa and Gukesh taking on Anish Giri. Firouzja will also be looking to make his mark in the tournament by challenging Nepomniachtchi.

With the competition heating up, chess enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the final rounds of the Superbet Classic tournament to see who will emerge victorious.