Chennai Grand Masters | Firouzja beats Gukesh, takes lead
Alireza Firouzja defeated World Champion D. Gukesh in the second round of the Chennai Grand Masters, moving into the tournament lead. Other matches in the round ended in draws, including Nihal Sarin holding Hans Niemann.
Why it matters
The tournament is a significant event for top-tier chess players, impacting world rankings and providing competitive preparation for the World Championship.
Alireza Firouzja is in a rich vein of form, and the confidence is evident. The Frenchman took down home favourite and World champion D. Gukesh in the second round of the Chennai Grand Masters at The Westin Velachery on Friday as he jumped to the lead.
It was the only decisive result on the day, with Firouzja keeping his poise to outwit his opponent in 69 moves. The victory also lifted him to No. 9 in the live world rankings. Beginning the tournament outside the top 10, the 23-year-old gained ground by beating M. Pranesh before scoring over Gukesh with white.
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