Anand and Carlsen Clash in Global Chess League Showdown

Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen recently faced off in a rare showdown at the Global Chess League in London, where Carlsen’s team emerged victorious. The two former world champions played out a 48-move draw, with Anand’s rooks putting pressure on Carlsen’s king, but ultimately unable to secure a win.

The new format of the league, with no increments in games, meant both players had just 20 minutes on the clock. Despite their long-standing rivalry, Anand commented on the changing styles and openings of both players over the years.

Carlsen has dominated their head-to-head record in recent years, but the game in London saw a Nyezhmetdinov-Rossolimo Attack after Carlsen opted for the Sicilian Defence against Anand’s King’s Pawn opening.

While Carlsen’s team won the overall contest, the game between Anand and Carlsen was a highlight of the event. The two legends shared honours, with Carlsen’s team securing the victory. Anand praised the event for its unique format and fast-paced gameplay.

The clash between friends Arjun Erigaisi and R Praggnanandhaa also caught attention, as they set aside their bond for a few hours to face off on the board. Their game ended in a draw after 74 moves, with just two kings left on the board.

Overall, the Global Chess League provided an exciting platform for these chess legends to showcase their skills and engage in thrilling battles on the board.