The 57th Biel Chess Festival witnessed intense battles and dramatic moments. GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, after a tough few days, secured a crucial victory. He defeated GM Sam Shankland, reentering the world top 10. Praggnanandhaa’s win was pivotal, keeping him in contention for the final stage of the Biel Chess Festival.
Praggnanandhaa’s triumph at the 57th Biel Chess Festival
The Rameshbabu family almost had a perfect day. GM Vaishali Rameshbabu was on the brink of beating GM Saleh Salem and topping the Challengers section. However, in a heart-wrenching turn, Vaishali blundered on move 40 with just three seconds remaining. Her winning position slipped away.
All six games in the Masters and Challengers sections could have finished decisively. GM Liem Le and Salem continued to lead after the classical rounds, heading into the blitz stage. The bottom two players in each section would be eliminated after the blitz.
Praggnanandhaa’s win against Shankland involved risks. His Anti-Berlin choice invited trouble, but he prevailed in a fascinating struggle. Climbing back to world number nine, Praggnanandhaa remains within striking distance of the leaders.
57th @BielFestival GMT Round 5: Praggnanandhaa (@RPraggnachess) beats Shankland to keep his chances
Vaishali misses a win, advances to the next stage
Read morehttps://t.co/ItxyYyfwIx
— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) July 21, 2024
GM Nihal Sarin Mishra had a chance to top the standings but settled for a draw against Keymer. The youngest GM ever, Mishra, showcased his skills in a wildly complex game.
GM Liem Le, the 2022 and 2023 tournament winner, could have taken a commanding lead. His 81-move clash with Martirosyan produced a study-like endgame, but he couldn’t convert the extra pawn.
The Biel Festival continues to deliver thrilling chess moments, with players battling for supremacy and enduring both triumphs and heartbreaks.
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