Indian chess prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa continues to impress, defeating world number one Magnus Carlsen in the Superbet rapid and blitz chess tournament. However, despite his victory, Praggnanandhaa remains in a tight chase for the top spot as Wei Yi of China maintains a significant lead in the Superbet Chess Tournament.

Exciting Developments in the Superbet Chess Tournament

This win against Carlsen marks another impressive feat for Praggnanandhaa, who has consistently shown dominance over the world champion in faster chess formats. However, the current leader, Wei Yi, seems well on his way to clinching the first leg of the Grand Chess Tour in the Superbet Chess Tournament. With just nine rounds remaining in the blitz event, Yi boasts a comfortable lead of 20.5 points, secured through seven wins on the first day.

Superbet Chess Tournament

While Carlsen sits in second place with 18 points, he owes much of his position to Praggnanandhaa's victories. The Indian prodigy, despite his impressive win against Carlsen, trails behind with 14.5 points.

Following closely behind Praggnanandhaa are Arjun Erigaisi (14 points) and Jan-Krzysztof Duda (13 points) of Poland. The remaining spots in the top eight are occupied by Nodirbek Abdusattorov (Uzbekistan), Vincent Keymer (Germany), Kirill Shevchenko (Romania), and Anish Giri (Netherlands).

An interesting turn of events unfolded for D. Gukesh, another young Indian talent. Despite a strong start against the leader, Wei Yi, Gukesh struggled throughout the day, managing only 2.5 points overall and currently holding the last position.

Superbet Chess Tournament
Source: The Hindu

Wei Yi, after a surprising loss to Gukesh in the opening round, recovered swiftly, conceding only a draw to Carlsen and winning all his remaining games. Erigaisi, on the other hand, capitalized on the day with victories over both Praggnanandhaa and Gukesh, keeping his hopes for a podium finish alive. Despite losses to Wei Yi and Carlsen, Erigaisi managed five wins and two draws in his other games, positioning himself well for the final day.

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