Carlsen Karjakin World Championship Archives - Chessentials

Carlsen – Karjakin Tiebreaks – Part 2

Mistreaver — Sun, 04 Dec 2016 16:03:47 +0000

After analyzing first two games of the Carlsen – Karjakin tiebreaks, in this post I will fill the picture and analyze the remaining two games, which both ended in decisive results.

The analysis can be found below. (Hint: Click on any move, and the pop-up board will appear).

TIEBREAKS – GAME THREE

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:00:33-0:07:33"]  [Date "2016.11.30"]  [Round "13.3"]  [White "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Black "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Result "0-1"]  [ECO "C77"]  [PlyCount "76"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   {The final act of the play started with the fascinating struggle in game three  } 1. e4 {Naturally, Karjakin sticks to what he knows the best.} e5 2. Nf3 Nc6  3. Bb5 a6 {And for the final time in this match we have the opportunity to  enjoy in the Closed Ruy Lopez.} 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7 6. d3 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. a3  O-O 9. Nc3 {[pgndiagram] This position can rightfully be considered a tabiya  of this match. The position was reached in games two and eleven of the regular  part of the match, and also in the first game of the tiebreaks.} Na5 {Carlsen  repeats his play from the game two.} (9... Be6 10. Nd5 {Was the game eleven}) (  9... Nb8 {Was the game one of the tiebreaks. Karjakin has been unable to prove  advantage in any of the given lines.}) 10. Ba2 Be6 11. b4 {[pgndiagram]  Karjakin is first to deviate this time.} (11. d4 Bxa2 12. Rxa2 {My opinion is  that this move order from the 2nd game is still critical and probably White's  best try for advantage}) 11... Nc6 $1 {And Carlsen immediately plays a novelty.  } (11... Bxa2 {In my database I have 4 2650+ games where this position has  been reached. All 4 games witnessed this bishop exchange before the knight  retreat} 12. Rxa2 Nc6 13. Bg5 {And White probably has some slight advantage,  although all 4 games ended in a draw.}) 12. Nd5 {As explained in the analysis  of the game eleven, White often jumps at d5 when it is available} Nd4 {  [pgndiagram]And this jump is also familiar from the game eleven} (12... Bxd5  13. exd5 Nb8 14. c4 {It is not a good idea to leave White with a strong pawn  on d5 and two bishops}) 13. Ng5 {The idea is to hit the bishop on e6.} Bxd5 {  Most straightforward} (13... c6 {Is also possible though.} 14. Nxe6 Nxe6 15.  Nxf6+ Bxf6 16. Be3 d5 {And Black is probably equal, although with the two  bishops White's chances are slightly better.}) 14. exd5 Nd7 {[pgndiagram]  Gaining some tempo on the White knight} (14... Nxd5 {Doesn't work} 15. Nxf7  Kxf7 16. Bxd5+ Ke8 17. Bxa8) 15. Ne4 f5 16. Nd2 {[pgndiagram]} (16. c3 {Was  not pointless, and maybe this intermezzo was a better move.} fxe4 17. cxd4 exd3  18. dxe5 Nxe5 19. Bb1 {And White probably retains some slight advantage}) 16...  f4 {Neccessary, to create an escape route for the knight.} 17. c3 Nf5 {  [pgndiagram] It is time to pause and take a look at the result of the opening.  White should probably be slightly better, because of the weakened light  squares in the black structure. However, Black has more space on the kingside,  and in the games with lower time control parrying attacks is considerably  harder then in normal over the board play.} 18. Ne4 {Perhaps it was better to  place the knight on b3, in order to prevent a5 ideas in the future} (18. Nb3) (  18. Re1 $5 {Also has a nice tactical point behind} Qe8 19. d4 $1 exd4 (19...  Qg6 20. Bb1 {And it's a pin}) 20. cxd4 Nxd4 21. Ne4 Nf5 22. Bxf4 {And White is  considerably better}) 18... Qe8 {Now the queen swings over effectively} 19. Bb3  (19. d4 Qg6 20. Bb1 {Now this is not pin due to knight on e4} Nh4) 19... Qg6 {  [pgndiagram] Now White has to take some care on the kingside.} 20. f3 Bh4 21.  a4 {Creating some play on the queenside} (21. Bd2 Nf6 22. a4 {Is very similar})  21... Nf6 {Bringing the last piece to the kingside.} (21... a5 $1 {Was  immediately possible}) 22. Qe2 (22. Nxf6+ {Is perhaps not advisable} Qxf6 23.  Bd2 Bg3 {And the removal of the knight allows installment of the strong g3  bishop} 24. Qe2 Qh4 25. h3 Qd8 {And I think only Black can play for the win in  this position}) 22... a5 $3 {[pgndiagram] To my primitive chess mind this is a  fantastic move. After ganging his pieces on the kingside, Carslen changes  direction and makes a pawn move on the other side of the board.} 23. axb5 (23.  bxa5 {Was inferior} Rxa5 24. Ra2 {There is nothing better really} bxa4 25. Rxa4  Rxa4 26. Bxa4 Nxd5) 23... axb4 24. Bd2 {A nice calm move} (24. Rxa8 Rxa8 25.  cxb4 Nd4 {And White's pawn structure is in ruins, while Black will regain his  pawn soon after the capture on b5.}) 24... bxc3 25. Bxc3 {[pgndiagram] After  White's precise replies Black still has a slight edge} Ne3 {Perhaps this was a  bit too quick.} (25... Bg3 {Was a possibility here} 26. Rxa8 {White has to be  precise} (26. hxg3 $2 {Is probably not advisable} fxg3 {And White is living on  the edge} 27. Rxa8 Rxa8 28. Ra1 Rxa1+ 29. Bxa1 Qh6 {And he will most probably  have to give back the piece on g3}) 26... Rxa8 27. Ra1 Rxa1+ 28. Bxa1 Nxe4 29.  dxe4 Qh5 30. h3 Ne3 {And at the end, Black still has some slight advantage})  26. Rfc1 Rxa1 27. Rxa1 Qe8 {[pgndiagram] Striking the b5} 28. Bc4 Kh8 {Moving  out of the way, so that the knight is not pinned once it captures on d5} (28...  Nfxd5 {Is too hasty} 29. Qa2 Qf7 {And Black doesn't have an advantage}) 29.  Nxf6 {Removing the threat to the d5 pawn in the more radical way.} (29. Qa2 {  Defending the d5 pawn was another possibility} Qg6 {Black can continue to play  for compensation} 30. Kh1 Rb8) 29... Bxf6 $5 {[pgndiagram] According to the  computer this is not the best move. But I think that this is the move that won  Carlsen.. the match.} (29... gxf6 {Opening the g-file, with the pressure on g2,  is better from the chess truth perspective} 30. Kh1 {This is suboptimal move,  but I think it is instructive to see how precise White has to be. He probably  has to find the series of only moves.} (30. Bd2 {Is the best chance} Nc2 31.  Ra7 Nd4 32. Qf1 Nxb5 {Although even here Black has serious winning chances})  30... Rg8 31. Rg1 Bg3 {And Black is winning}) 30. Ra3 {Defending the bishop} e4  $3 {[pgndiagram] To my mind this is an amazing move. Such a pawn breakthrough  is surely unpleasant to face when already low on time. Black simply gives up  a pawn for a complete Black square domination. Objectively position is still  equal, but now White has to find some precise move in order not to lose, while  Black is hardly risking anything.} 31. dxe4 Bxc3 32. Rxc3 Qe5 {[pgndiagram]  The difference in activity of the pieces compensates for the material deficit.}  33. Rc1 $6 (33. Qd2 {Was probably easier} Ra8 34. Bf1 Ra1 35. Rc1 h6 {And the  position is probably equal}) 33... Ra8 34. h3 $6 {Karjakin makes the most  obvious moves} (34. Qd2 Ra1 35. Bf1 g5 {And Black can play forever, but  White's position shouldn't be breachable}) 34... h6 35. Kh2 Qd4 36. Qe1 $6 {  [pgndiagram] And only this can be called a mistake. Because after this move  White's defensive task becomes much more hard} (36. Bd3 Ra1 37. Rxa1 Qxa1 38.  Qd2 {And White is very much in the game}) 36... Qb2 {Now it suddenly gets very  unpleasant.} 37. Bf1 Ra2 38. Rxc7 $4 {[pgndiagram] And White cracks under the  tension and commits a decisive blunder.} (38. Rb1 {Was now aboslutely  neccessary.} Qf6 {The idea is to go Qg5 next. White has to find only moves to  survive.} 39. Be2 {Even Peter Svidler in his commentary said that this  self-pinning move is very hard to find over the board. Especially in a rapid  game}) 38... Ra1 {And suddenly it is game over as White loses material.} 0-1

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TIEBREAKS – GAME FOUR

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:01:33-0:00:33"]  [Date "2016.11.30"]  [Round "13.4"]  [White "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Black "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Result "1-0"]  [ECO "B55"]  [PlyCount "99"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   1. e4 {It seems like the number of 1 e4 games in this match confirms the  Fischer's evaluation of that move : "Best by test!"} c5 {Of course! When you  need to win a game, Sicilian is the most logical choice.} 2. Nf3 d6 {"Najdorf,  please?"} 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5. f3 {[pgndiagram] And you will have none of  that. This variation is the so-called Prins Variation. It occurs here and  there on the highest level, but the main thing is that it is hardly a serious  winning try if Black is content with a draw.} e5 {This move I like to see when  playing e5} (5... e6 {Since my good friend and co-author of this blog, FM  Matej Blazeka has showed me this opening, I have been using it regularly with  decent results. Therefore, I hate the variation with e6 much more. I think  that going for the fast d5 is the best thing Black can do, since it will make  the f3 pawn look plain stupid} 6. c4 Be7 7. Nc3 O-O 8. Be3 Nc6 9. Be2 d5 {  [pgndiagram] And Black has equalized} 10. exd5 exd5 11. Nxc6 bxc6 12. cxd5) 6.  Nb3 Be7 {[pgndiagram]} (6... a5 {Too be honest, if Black wants to play with a5,  it makes more sense to do so immediately. The point is that White can't go for  Maroczy bind now} 7. c4 $2 (7. Nc3 {Is the correct approach}) 7... Nxe4 $1 {  [pgndiagram]} 8. fxe4 Qh4+ 9. Kd2 a4 {And White's knight has no retreat  squares available}) (6... d5 {Is another theme} 7. Bg5 Be6 8. Bxf6 gxf6 9. exd5  Qxd5 10. Qxd5 Bxd5 11. Nc3 {And in this endgame only White can play for the  win, although the majority of games end up as a draw.}) 7. c4 a5 8. Be3 {  [pgndiagram] I think that White simply gets a good version of the Maroczy now}  a4 9. Nc1 {Such "ugly" knight maneovres are typical of the entire variation.}  O-O 10. Nc3 Qa5 11. Qd2 Na6 $6 {[pgndiagram] Not the best.} (11... Be6 12. Be2  Rc8 {Pressuring the c4 square, wuld have forced a concession from White}) 12.  Be2 Nc5 13. O-O {[pgndiagram] White has a very pleasant position, he has  succesfully carried out all the main ideas of the system without being  hindered.} Bd7 14. Rb1 {The b4 plan is very logical, disrupting the piece  omposition on the queenside.} Rfc8 15. b4 axb3 16. axb3 {It is clear that  Karjakin's had an off day and that he can hardly expect to win this game.} Qd8  17. Nd3 {[pgndiagram]The best way of disturbing Black's best piece, the knight  on c5} (17. b4 Na4 {Was a bit too hasty. The White's knight would ideally like  to use b4 as a jumping point.}) 17... Ne6 18. Nb4 {[pgndiagram] Seizing  control of the d5 square} Bc6 (18... Nf4 {Is computer's first choice. Such a  recommendation by the engine is a clear sign that Black's position is dubious}  19. Bxf4 Qb6+ 20. Be3 Qxb4 21. Rfd1 {And White is still smooth sailing}) 19.  Rfd1 {[pgndiagram] Black simply doesn't have a single active idea} h5 {This is  a bit of desperation} (19... Nd4 $1 {Was not a bad chance} 20. Bxd4 exd4 21.  Qxd4 d5 $1 22. Nxc6 (22. Nbxd5 $2 Bxd5 23. Nxd5 $2 Bc5 {Loses the queen}) 22...  Rxc6 23. b4 {And White remains in control}) 20. Bf1 {[pgndiagram] Carlsen  plays rather safe and slow, occupation of the d5 was perfectly possible,} h4  21. Qf2 {Again ignoring d5} (21. Nbd5) 21... Nd7 22. g3 {This was perhaps also  unnecessary. White plans to play the bishop on h3, but this gives Black time  to latch on some ideas.} (22. Kh1) (22. Rd2) 22... Ra3 (22... Bg5 {Was  apparently the best. Usualy in this structure it is favourable to exchange the  dark squared bishops for black} 23. Rxd6 $2 {Taking the pawn is very bad idea.}  Bxe3 24. Qxe3 Qe7 {And Black suddenly breaths}) 23. Bh3 Rca8 24. Nc2 {  [pgndiagram] The White knights are doing a wonderful job in keeping the black  rooks out} R3a6 25. Nb4 Ra5 {Naturally, there will be no repetition} 26. Nc2 (  26. f4 {Was very interesting, but rather unnecessary in the given match  situation} hxg3 27. hxg3 exf4 28. gxf4 Rh5 {And suddenly play is much more  concrete and tactical than it was a couple of moves ago}) 26... b6 (26... R5a6  {Is objectively the best, but of course, Karjakin couldn't agree to a draw in  this game}) 27. Rd2 Qc7 28. Rbd1 {[pgndiagram] White is probably close to  winning at this point} Bf8 29. gxh4 {Simplifying the position and gaining a  pawn in the process.} Nf4 30. Bxf4 exf4 31. Bxd7 Qxd7 32. Nb4 {[pgndiagram]} (  32. Qxb6 {Was perfectly possible}) 32... Ra3 33. Nxc6 Qxc6 34. Nb5 {  [pgndiagram] The classic example of the -good knight vs bad bishop} Rxb3 {  Karjakin tries to mix things up with an exchange sacrifice, and practically  speaking it is not a bad decision. The problem is that both Carlsen and his  position are too strong.} (34... Ra1 {Trying for the d5 break, was interesting}  35. Kh1 {And that is the end of the demonstration} (35. Kg2 d5)) (34... d5 {  Immediately doesn't work} 35. Nxa3 Bc5 36. Rd4) 35. Nd4 Qxc4 36. Nxb3 Qxb3 {  [pgndiagram] Here White should be technically winning. Moreover, Karjakin was  already below two minutes ata this point} 37. Qe2 Be7 38. Kg2 Qe6 39. h5 Ra3  40. Rd3 Ra2 41. R3d2 Ra3 42. Rd3 Ra7 {[pgndiagram] Naturally, under normal  circumstances Karjakin would have agreed to draw without hesitation. However,  under normal circumstances Magnus would have never offered a repetition in  this position} 43. Rd5 Rc7 44. Qd2 Qf6 45. Rf5 Qh4 46. Rc1 Ra7 47. Qxf4 {Now  soon comes the explosive finish} Ra2+ 48. Kh1 Qf2 {At this point almost  everyone was expecting Magnus tu go for Qg3 and play it safe. But he finishes  the game and the match in style.} 49. Rc8+ $3 {[pgndiagram] Not that hard to  see, but still, choosing a stylish instead of a safe continuation requires  some nerves and bravery.} Kh7 (49... Bf8 50. Rxf8+ Kxf8 51. Rxf7+) 50. Qh6+ $3  {One of the most beautiful checkmate pictures I have ever seen. Even more  beuatiful when the importance of the game and the identity of the opponent are  considered. Not a bad present for your 26th birthday.} 1-0

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MATCH SUMMARY

Finally, we have arrived at the end of another World Championship match. It has been another fascinating struggle and very close encounter where nerves proved to be at least as important as the things happening on the chessboard.

First of all, I think it is rightfull to say that Magnus deserved the victory. You might say that I am biased as a Magnus fan, and you may well be right, but the truth is that he played the better chess. While Karjakin was awaiting ‘wait and see’ defensive tactics, Magnus was trying to play for the win, and actually most of excitement happened mainly through his efforts to extract more out of the positions where most of us would have agreed a draw.

And although it might seem that I am belittling Karjakin’s efforts here, it is not true. I think that he is a great player, and his behaviour and comments during the course of the match have won him many admirers throughout the chess world, the author of these lines included.

However, I don’t agree completely with Machiavelli’s thoughts, because I think that in sports the style in which the accomplishment was achieved is as important as the accomplishment itself. And that there is reason why events such as Greece winning the European football championship in 2004 are more of an exception than a regularity.

Smart thinker that Machiavelli was

The match itself was much more difficult and closer than Carlsen’s matches with the Anand. While Anand was never leading the match, Karjakin was only three games away from taking the title out of Magnus’ reach. If he had found a draw in the game ten, maybe chess history would have taken a completely different course.

Therefore, Carlsen continues to be “lucky” in the World Championship match. And for the first time the chess world has witnessed how he copes with serious pressure and how he plays when things are not going according to the plan. As he admitted in the post match interview, he is aware that this is the area where he has to work more seriously to improve further.

Finally, I hope that he will not behave similarly as Kasparov throughout his chess career, especially in his older and declining years. His bad handling of the loss in the game eight hasn’t won him many admirers. And additionally, it has disappointed alot of chess fans. It is perfectly understandable that after such an important loss it is hard to compose yourseslf, but I think a world champion should be a role model to everyone in the world, and especially younger generations. And how will they learn such an important feat if even their hero is behaving in the same way as them.

Anyway, it has been real pleasure to follow and analyze the games, I think that the standard of the play was very high, that the games were fascinating and that every chessplayer could learn alot from the material these two players provided us with.

For the end, you can always take a look at Carlsen’s own thoughts about the match.

If you have any thoughts or comments, please express yourself freely below

The post Carlsen – Karjakin Tiebreaks – Part 2 appeared first on Chessentials.

Carlsen – Karjakin tiebreaks – Part 1

Mistreaver — Sat, 03 Dec 2016 19:15:55 +0000

TIEBREAKS – FORMAT AND OPINIONS

For the third time in the modern history, a World Championship match has been decided in the tiebreak format. After Kramnik – Topalov and Anand – Gelfand matches, Carlsen – Karjakin tiebreak continued to be lucky for the Champion.

First of all, I would like to take an opportunity to express my opinion about the tiebreak system used in this match. In case you don’t remember, this is the tiebreak system that was used:

Four rapid games with 25 minutes and 10 seconds increment per move are played
If the result after rapid is drawn, then additional ten games with 5 minutes and 3 seconds increment per move are played
Finally, if the results is still drawn, a final Armaggedon game. White has 5 minutes and Black has 4 minutes. If the game is drawn, then Black is proclaimed the World Champion.

Naturally, it is easy to criticize, but I don’t like the possibility of the World Championship title being decided in a blitz game without increment. Because in such a short format, the chess is secondary, and it all comes down to pure gamble.

The only instance of Armageddon bringing positive connotations

However, through the chess history many different match systems have been tried. And it is much easier to pinpoint the drawbacks, instead of positive sides, of every single format.

For instance, from the 1984 Kasparov – Karpov match it is rather well known that the unlimited match has very obvious drawback of having a potential of being trully… unlimited.

On the other hand, 24 games match system without tiebreaks, which allows the Champion to retain his title in the event of the drawn 12-12 results, also doesn’t seem entirely fair.

Therefore, I would like to paraphrase two great men here.

The first one is Churchill quote about democracy. That basically says that democracy is not perfect, but it is the best system SO FAR.

I think that playing the rapid chess as a tiebreak is good enough. Since players still have enough time for the quality of the games to be decent enough.

However, I have to agree with Nakamura’s viewpoint here.

I think that stretching the rapid games over a couple of days would allow more enjoyment for the spectators for a couple of reasons:

Firstly, the quality of the games would be highly improved as there would be less fatigue.
Secondly, time pressure in the rapid games still happens and suboptimal moves, leading to excitement happens. And yet, it is not THAT radical as in blitz games.
Finally, by playing all games in one day, players aren’t entitled to having a bad day. It is probably true that bad days shouldn’t happen on such a high level, but it is precisely what happened to Karjakin. And it meant that all his previous efforts were in vain.

Additionaly, playing more games in a longer period of time would mean that lazy commentators such as myself wouldn’t be this late with their report

This is how i felt when I started analyzing the games

Everything said above is onlymy opinion. I would be happy to hear what the readers think and have to say, so feel free to share your thoughts below

Now let’s look at the analysis of the games.

(Hint: Click on any move, analysis or main, and the pop-up board will also appear)

TIEBREAKS – GAME ONE

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:02:33-0:08:33"]  [Date "2016.11.30"]  [Round "13.1"]  [White "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Black "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Result "1/2-1/2"]  [ECO "C77"]  [PlyCount "74"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   1. e4 {It probably made alot of sense for Karjakin to stick to his main  opening move in the tiebreaks as well.} e5 {Of course. Magnus plays this  almost exclusively} 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 {And the dispute in the Closed Ruy  from the first part of the match continues in the tiebreaks as well.} 4. Ba4  Nf6 5. O-O Be7 6. d3 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. a3 {Karjakin once again chooses the a3-d3  setup} O-O 9. Nc3 {[pgndiagram] This position has been reached twice in the  match. In the game two Magnus went 9 ... Na6 here, while in the game eleven he  deviated with 9... Be6} Nb8 {Once again Carlsen deviates and goes for this  "Breyer-like" maneuvre.} (9... Na5) (9... Be6) 10. Ne2 {Karjakin goes for the  very controlled knight move.} (10. a4 {[pgndiagram] Was Caruana's choice} b4  11. Nd5 Nxd5 12. Bxd5 c6 13. Bb3 {And Black has equalized}) (10. Ng5 $5 {  [pgndiagram] Is Gajewski's agressive idea.} Nc6 {The simplest move. Black  heads for the weakened d4 immediately. This paradoxical move is very hard to  find over the board.} (10... h6 11. f4 {[pgndiagram] Is the point} exf4 (11...  hxg5 12. fxg5 {Is dangerous for Black}) 12. Nxf7 Rxf7 13. Bxf4) 11. Ba2 Nd4 12.  Ne2 {[pgndiagram] And White shouldn't have any advantage, Anand - So, Gashimov  Memorial 2015}) 10... c5 {Grabbing the centre. I think that after 10 Ne2 Black  shouldn't have serious problems.} 11. Ng3 Nc6 12. c3 {[pgndiagram] Black has  enough space, and I am not certain what White's plan in this position should  represent. Black has clear idea of playing on the queenside} Rb8 (12... a5 {  Was perfectly possible at once}) (12... Be6 {Is how the game Malakhov - Ding,  China Championship Teams 2015 went}) 13. h3 a5 (13... Be6 {Is not the best  move, since White manages to go b4 himself, hindering Black's play somewhat}  14. Bxe6 fxe6 15. b4) 14. a4 b4 15. Re1 {[pgndiagram] Black has simply  equalized} Be6 16. Bc4 (16. Bxe6 {Would only help Black, since it would  control the f5 square, and increase Black's pawn mass in the centre}) 16... h6  (16... Bxc4 {Is also not the best, since White can get rid of the doubled  pawns anytime by cxb4. Furthermore, the pawn on c4 can't be attacked, and it  only puts d5 firmly under White's control.}) 17. Be3 Qc8 {[pgndiagram] To be  honest, I didn't quite understand why Carlsen didn't go for more natural Qc7.  Edit: After analysing a bit, I think the point of this move is to have f5  square under control, in case of d5 advance} (17... Qc7 18. Nd2 d5 19. exd5  Nxd5 {And Black is OK}) 18. Qe2 (18. Nd2 {I don't see much difference in this  variation compared to Qc7} d5 19. exd5 Nxd5 20. Bxd5 Bxd5 {And here also Black  stands well. Maybe slight difference is that here f5 square is under control})  18... Rd8 {[pgndiagram] Preparing d5} 19. Bxe6 fxe6 $6 (19... Qxe6 {Would have  been slightly better I think. Because after that d4 wouldn't have been  possible.} 20. Nf5 (20. d4 exd4 21. cxd4 Nxe4) 20... Bf8 {And Black is under  control}) 20. d4 {[pgndiagram] Now White manages to advance in the centre,  leaving him slightly better} bxc3 {This exchange is useful} (20... cxd4 21.  cxd4 exd4 22. Bxd4 {And the rook on b8 is dumb}) 21. bxc3 cxd4 22. cxd4 exd4  23. Nxd4 {[pgndiagram]} (23. Bxd4 {This counter intuitive move was interesting}  Nd7 {Taking on d4 is not good for Black, the White knight gains b5 and e6 is  weak} 24. Nh5 Bf8 25. Rac1 {[pgndiagram] And White has some pressure}) 23...  Nxd4 24. Bxd4 Rb4 {Now Black manages to stabilize, and his activity  compensates for his slightly weakened pawn structure.} 25. Rec1 Qd7 $1 {  [pgndiagram] Care is required. Attacking the a4 pawn is safe way to equalize} (  25... Qb7 26. Bc3 {Loses the a pawn}) 26. Bc3 Rxa4 27. Bxa5 Rxa1 28. Rxa1 {And  now dead draw is on the board.} Ra8 29. Bc3 Rxa1+ 30. Bxa1 Qc6 31. Kh2 Kf7 32.  Bb2 Qc5 33. f4 Bd8 34. e5 dxe5 35. Bxe5 Bb6 36. Qd1 Qd5 37. Qxd5 Nxd5 1/2-1/2

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TIEBREAKS – GAME TWO

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:00:33-0:01:33"]  [Date "2016.11.30"]  [Round "13.2"]  [White "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Black "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Result "1/2-1/2"]  [ECO "C54"]  [PlyCount "167"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   {Carlsen goes for the king pawn move? Does he have something in store against  the Berlin?} 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 {No. But there is no reason not to go  for the Italian. In the 5th game he obtained very nice position out of the  opening} Bc5 4. O-O Nf6 5. d3 O-O 6. a4 a6 7. c3 d6 8. Re1 {[pgndiagram] This  time he goes for the main tabiyas without advancing the b pawn} (8. b4 {Was  the afore mentioned game 5.}) 8... Ba7 {This is a useful move for Black to  make. White's idea is to advance d4 sooner or later, and with the bishop out  of the way, it doesn't gain a tempo for White.} 9. h3 Ne7 {Another typical  maneovre. Knight heads to g6, supporting e5 from other side, and also eyeing  the f4 square. Additionaly, Bg5 is shot in the blank, since h6 solves the pin  immediately} 10. d4 {[pgndiagram] Very direct play. Immediately striking in  the centre.} (10. Bg5 Ng6 11. Nh4 Kh8 12. Nd2 Bd7) 10... Ng6 11. Nbd2 c6 {  [pgndiagram] The opening has ended. White has a very slight edge due to his  space advantage. But more importantly, the position is rich with possibilities  for both sides. It is precisely what Magnus as a stronger player wants.  Especially with lower time control.} 12. Bf1 (12. Bb3 {And d5 dulls the bishop  here} exd4 13. cxd4 d5 14. e5 Nh5 15. Bc2 Nhf4) 12... a5 $6 {Central operation  was to be prefered, in my humble 2200 opinion.} (12... exd4 13. cxd4 d5 14. e5  Nh5 15. Nb3 {Is better version for White, since he can jump with the knight to  b3, thus letting the bishop control f4} Nhf4 16. Bxf4 Nxf4 17. Qd2) 13. dxe5 {  [pgndiagram] Magnus clarifies the central situation. Nothing wrong in that.} (  13. b3 {He could have opted to maintain the tension, since d5 advance is not  dangerous now} exd4 14. cxd4 d5 15. e5 Nh5 16. Ba3 {And this is favourable for  White} Re8 17. b4) 13... dxe5 14. Qc2 Be6 (14... Bg4 {Is amazing possibility  here} 15. hxg4 Nxg4 16. Re2 Nf4 {And White is in trouble}) 15. Nc4 {Typical  play for this structure is the play around c4-e3-f5 square complex} Qc7 16. b4  {[pgndiagram] This advance is a result of Black's 12th move.} axb4 17. cxb4 b5  $5 {It is doubtful whether such radical measures were neccessary. However, it  is not a bad idea to generate some counterplay} (17... Nh5 18. Be3 Nhf4 19.  Bxa7 Rxa7 20. a5 {Is also better for White though.}) 18. Ne3 $1 {[pgndiagram]  A good square} (18. Na5 Rfc8) 18... bxa4 {The position is very hard to play.  But White's pieces look slightly better} (18... Qe7 {Is computer's choice,  eyeing the weak b4 pawn} 19. axb5 cxb5 20. Ra5 {Threatening to pin the a7 piece  } Bb6 21. Rxb5 Rfb8 {And apparently Black has enough counterplay}) 19. Rxa4  Bxe3 {[pgndiagram] A neccessary concession} (19... Bb6 20. Rxa8 Rxa8 21. Nc4 {  Is simply better for White}) (19... h6 20. Nc4 {Is also pleasant}) 20. Bxe3 (  20. Rxe3 {A materialistic approach was also possible, not giving the e4. It is  probably even better}) 20... Rxa4 21. Qxa4 Nxe4 {Now White should probably  have very little. But since this was a rapid game, the times were already  rather low.} 22. Rc1 {[pgndiagram] White has tactical ideas that enable him to  regain the pawn.} Bd5 (22... Rb8 {Was another defence that fails} 23. b5 Bd5  24. Qa7 {And White is seriously better} Rb7 25. Qa6) 23. b5 {The tactical point  } cxb5 $2 {This is a mistake. Black enters an inferior endgame where White has  all the time in the world to torture him and convert his advantage.} (23... c5  {Was more resilient} 24. Bc4 Bb7 25. Bd3 Nf6 26. Rxc5 Qd6 {And Black breaths})  24. Qxe4 Qxc1 25. Qxd5 Qc7 {[pgndiagram] White is left with two bishops  against a rook and a pawn. It is true that all the pawns are on the same wing,  but even so, even so...} 26. Qxb5 Rb8 27. Qd5 Rd8 28. Qb3 {It is not so easy  to convert the advantage} Rb8 29. Qa2 h6 30. Qd5 Qe7 31. Qe4 Qf6 $6 {This  gives White time for active measures.} (31... Qb7 {With the queen exchange,  White's task is harder, so it made sense to insist on that.} 32. Qc2 Qb1) 32.  g3 {[pgndiagram] White has several ideas. One possibility is h4-h5, with the  threat to e5 pawn. The other is Bc4, probing the f7 pawn.} (32. h4 {Was  immediately possible} Re8 33. Bd3 Nf8 34. h5) 32... Rc8 33. Bd3 (33. h4 $5)  33... Qc6 {Once again getting the right idea} 34. Qf5 Re8 35. Be4 {[pgndiagram]  Carlsen plays very slowly and very safe. The stakes are high} (35. Nh4 {Was  for the more impatient players} Nxh4 36. Qh7+ Kf8 37. Be4 Qc4 38. gxh4 {But  intuitively White doesn't want to spoil his pawn structure}) 35... Qe6 36. Qh5  Ne7 $6 {Karjakin decides to give up a pawn in order to eliminate queens} 37.  Qxe5 {Natural move} (37. Ng5 $1 {Was a tactical solution} Qc4 38. Bh7+ Kf8 39.  Ne4 {But this is too computer for a rapid game.}) 37... Qxe5 38. Nxe5 Ng6 {  Simplifying further} (38... Nc8 39. f4 f6 40. Bd5+ {Doesn't win a piece} Kh7  41. Nc4) 39. Bxg6 Rxe5 40. Bd3 {Now a long game of cat and mouse ensues. White  wants to install the king on g6} f6 41. Kg2 Kh8 42. Kf3 Rd5 43. Bg6 Ra5 44. Ke4  Rb5 45. h4 {[pgndiagram] For the moment Black's rook is preventing the king's  entrance. But the bishops can outsmart the rook} Re5+ 46. Kd4 Ra5 47. Kc4 Re5  48. Bd4 Ra5 49. Bc5 {[pgndiagram] The "bridge" is built.} Kg8 50. Kd5 Rb5 51.  Kd6 Ra5 52. Be3 Re5 53. Bf4 {It is neccesary to move the rook away from the e  file} Ra5 54. Bd3 $6 {[pgndiagram] Giving an opportunity by releasing the g  pawn} Ra7 $6 {"Pawns don't move backwards." But I think here it was better to  go against this eternal chess truth.} (54... g5 {was interesting here} 55. Be3  (55. hxg5 hxg5 56. Be3 Kg7 {Is making Black's defence easier}) 55... gxh4 56.  gxh4 Kg7 {And White's task is somewhat harder here. He has to be vary about  the h-pawn}) 55. Ke6 Rb7 56. Kf5 (56. Be3 Rb3 57. Bc4 Rb4 58. Bd5 Rb5 {And the  king can't reach the g6 square}) 56... Rd7 (56... Kh7 {I am not at all certain  whether White can break through if Black installs the king on h7.} 57. Be4 Ra7  58. g4 Ra5+ 59. Ke6+ Kg8 60. h5 {And nothing is clear yet}) 57. Bc2 (57. Bc4+  Kh7) 57... Rb7 (57... Kh7) 58. Kg6 {The king has instaled itself at the price  of the f-pawn} Rb2 59. Bf5 Rxf2 60. Be6+ Kh8 61. Bd6 Re2 62. Bg4 $2 {  [pgndiagram]} (62. Kf7 {Was apparently winning} Rb2 63. Bf8 Rb7+ 64. Kg6 f5 65.  Bc5 $1 {An amazing move} Rc7 66. Bd4 {[pgndiagram] And Black is in ZUGZWANG.  His rook can't defend g7 and threaten the check on 6th rank.} Rb7 67. Bf7 {And  there is no Rb6+. FAntastic}) 62... Re8 {Now White can just wait for the  mistake. Both players were playing only on increment at this point, though.}  63. Bf5 Kg8 64. Bc2 Re3 65. Bb1 Kh8 66. Kf7 Rb3 67. Be4 Re3 68. Bf5 Rc3 69. g4  Rc6 70. Bf8 Rc7+ 71. Kg6 Kg8 72. Bb4 Rb7 $2 {[pgndiagram] And after a long  maneovering struggle, here we have it. Black cracks and commits a decisive  blunder.} (72... Rc6 {Was good enough, not allowing any accidents.}) 73. Bd6 $2  {And Carlsen returns the favour} (73. Be6+ {Was immediately decisive.} Kh8 74.  Bf8 {And Black can't avoid the Bf7-Bxg7 things} f5 (74... h5 {Also doesn't help  } 75. gxh5 f5 76. h6 gxh6 77. Bxh6 {And the engine announces mate in 9}) 75.  gxf5 h5 76. f6 gxf6 77. Bf7) 73... Kh8 $2 {It was not pinpointed by any  commentators, but this is once again a mistake} 74. Bf8 Kg8 75. Ba3 $2 {  [pgndiagram]And here Magnus misses it for the one last time} (75. Bc5 {Going  for the Be6+ was decisive} Kh8 (75... Rb5 76. Be6+ Kh8 77. Bf8) (75... Rb8 {Is  the most resilient} 76. Be6+ Kh8 77. h5 Ra8 {And now what?} 78. g5 $3 {  [pgndiagram] Very hard to see with a few seconds on the clock. Black can't  avoid the loss} hxg5 (78... Re8 79. gxh6 gxh6 80. Bf7) 79. h6 gxh6 80. Be7) 76.  Be6 {And now this bishop can't be disloged} Rc7 77. Bf8) 75... Kh8 76. Be6 Rb6  {This is the difference.} 77. Kf7 Rb7+ 78. Be7 {And it seems that Black's king  is once again surrounded. But Karjakin finds a miracle save.} h5 $3 {  [pgndiagram] Giving up his pawns and his rook to reach a theoreticaly drawn  position.} 79. gxh5 f5 80. Bxf5 {There is nothing else basically} Rxe7+ 81.  Kxe7 {[pgndiagram] And no matter what your engine says, this position is  theoreticaly drawn} Kg8 82. Bd3 Kh8 83. Kf8 g5 84. hxg6 {Very interesting  struggle. Naturally, with the limited time the quality was lower, but I think  that suboptimal moves make the games much more dramatic and exciting.} 1/2-1/2

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Carlsen – Karjakin, Game twelve

Mistreaver — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 21:29:33 +0000

REMEMBER, REMEMBER THE 28TH OF NOVEMBER…

The above title was prepared specifically for the aftermath of the Carlsen – Karjakin game twelve.

Because Guy Fawkes references seemed appropriate to praise the champion after grandiose final struggle which was expected.

Alas, no one really counted on Magnus playing like Mourinho teams in his last White game of the match. Because playing a harmless opening variation and forcing a quick draw isn’t something that is expected from a fighting champion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRNMBcQePv0

Hopefully for us the Magnus fans, his play on tiebreak will be more succesful than the play of the current Jose Mourinho team (sorry Manchester United fans).

GAME COURSE

As you probably noticed, I am slightly revolted with the way the last game of the match developed. And apparently I am not the only one.

Because judging by the comments on the chessbomb, chess community was not very fond of the way the game was conducted.

Actually, the comments to the game proved to be more entertaining than the game itself. Check some of them:

Weegee2: “Omg this is terrible”

Sisis: ” They could suceed in playing the most boring game of the World Championship match.”

And my absolute favourite:

Dejan: “Fide should ban the Ruy Lopez from the World Championship matches.”

Therefore, probably the only person who was happy about how the final game developed, was Dr. Ivo Karlovic. A.K.A. The tiebreak god.

I think even people who aren’t tennis fans might understand the point of this joke

So, what actually happened in game twelve? Well, to be honest, if this was an open tournament it would surely be regarded as a predetermined draw. Carlsen chose the inoffensive variation of the Berlin defence that led to a symmetrical pawn structure and open e-file. Very soon exchanges took place and a bishop endgame was reached, where neither side had chances of winning.

Therefore, the players gained additional rest day before the tiebreaks. The best indication that Carlsen didn’t even try to play normally is his time. At the end of the game, he had 1 hour and 44 minutes remaining, which meant that he blitzed the majority of his moves.

It is clear that in such a match only the result counts. And Carlsen probably judged that he is risking less by entering a four game Rapid Format, instead of trying to win with risk as White. It is worth remembering that he lost the game with the White pieces, and that he is also the world number one by rating in rapid.

As for Karjakin, he can probably have some regrets since three games ago his situation looked much more comfortable. Even so, before the match he would probably sign entering the tiebreaks immediately, since with shorter time control anything can happen. And there was no way for him to do anything with the Black pieces in the last game, unless he was willing to take colossal and unnecessary risk.

Therefore, only the tiebreaks remain.
P.s. I will post only the game without analysis, since there is really not much to analyze here. And furthermore, my motivation for analysis is non-existent. My state while watching the game can be best described by the following picture.

In the last game there was no “cat and mouse” play

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"][Site "New York, NY USA"]     [Date "2016.11.28"]  [Round "12"]  [White "Magnus, Carlsen"]  [Black "Sergey, Karjakin"]  [Result "1/2-1/2"]  [ECO "C67"]  [PlyCount "60"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]  [SourceDate "2016.11.28"]1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. O-O Nxe4 5. Re1 Nd6 6. Nxe5 Be7 7. Bf1 Nxe5  8. Rxe5 O-O 9. d4 Bf6 10. Re1 Re8 11. Bf4 Rxe1 12. Qxe1 Ne8 13. c3 d5 14. Bd3  g6 15. Na3 c6 16. Nc2 Ng7 17. Qd2 Bf5 18. Bxf5 Nxf5 19. Ne3 Nxe3 20. Qxe3 Qe7  21. Qxe7 Bxe7 22. Re1 Bf8 23. Kf1 f6 24. g4 Kf7 25. h3 Re8 26. Rxe8 Kxe8 27.  Ke2 Kd7 28. Kd3 Ke6 29. a4 a6 30. f3 Be7 1/2-1/2

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Carlsen – Karjakin, Game eleven

Mistreaver — Sun, 27 Nov 2016 20:19:04 +0000

SHORT, BUT INTENSIVE STRUGGLE IN THE LAST “SPANISH CARAVAN”

One game remains in the Carlsen – Karjakin World Championship match. After the draw in the Carlsen – Karjakin game eleven, the scores are tied at 5.5-5.5 and the tension is at its peak.

If we imagined Carlsen dancing with the devil in the aftermath of the game ten, than there is no reason not to mention the famous Doors song in the context of the game eleven, wouldn’t you agree?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKmkOIlHbok

Because if Karjakin had any ambitions to finish the match before the tiebreaks, before the last game it is probably safe to say that that “CARAVAN” has now definitely left the… CARAVAN STATION?

Since it is probably not very likely that Magnus will again Karjakin serious chances with the Black pieces, as happened in game eight.

GAME COURSE

As probably everyone has guessed so far, in Carlsen – Karjakin game eleven once again e4 was replied with e5.

And although Carlsen expressed some interesting opinions in the post game press conference, in reality he stick to what he knows the best. And no matter what a group of well known gentleman, everyone expected the Spanish opening to appear.

Sooner or later Monthy Python’s flying circus reference had to appear on this blog

Anyway… The players followed the same variation that already appeared in game two. It is no doubt that Karjakin had some improvement in mind. But due to Carlsen’s versatility, he once again deviated first and played the new move.

His Be6 led to a theoretical, but simplified position. A battle between White’s kingside pawn majority and Black’s queenside pawn mass ensued.

However, Karjakin’s play probably won’t find many followers in the future. Since after the slow h3 he was left without many active possibilities. Magnus played very energetically in the centre and on the queenside, and managed to pose some serious problems to the challenger.

Problems, that were difficult, but also not insurmountable. Therefore, Karjakin managed to navigate his way through the complications and ward off Carlsen’s threats.

He later claimed that he played bad and that he at least managed to find one decent move (20 Bg5) – source – chess 24 article.

Let’s look at the analysis of the game. (Hint: Press any move and the pop-up board will appear).

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "New York, NY USA"]  [Date "2016.11.26"]  [Round "11"]  [White "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Black "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Result "1/2-1/2"]  [ECO "C77"]  [PlyCount "67"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   {In the last White game of the regular part of the World Championship,  Karjakin sticks to his main move.} 1. e4 e5 {Naturally, Carlsen also replies  with what he knows the best.} 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 {And for the 4th time in  the match Carlsen says no to Berlin.} 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7 {[pgndiagram]  Repeating the Closed Ruy Lopez from the games 2 and 4 and 6.} (5... b5 {In the  9th game Carlsen deviated and played the Neo-Arkhangelsk variation} 6. Bb3 Bc5  {But he experienced serious problems in that game}) 6. d3 {Karjakin once again  avoids the Marshall counterattack} b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. a3 {Repeating the variation  from the 2nd game.} O-O 9. Nc3 {So far everything as in game two. Karjakin  obviously had some idea in mind. However, Carlsen once again forestalls him  and deviates first.} Be6 $5 {[pgndiagram] A nice idea. Black offers a bishop  exchange which would ruin his pawn structure. But because of his mobility in  the centre and control of d5, he judges that it is not disadvantageous for him}  (9... Na5 {Would be repetition of game two}) 10. Nd5 $5 {A typical idea. White  refuses to go along with Black's plans, but jumps on the d5 square while it is  available} (10. Bxe6 fxe6 11. Bd2 d5 {Is apparently ok for Black}) 10... Nd4 $1  {Carlsen played this instantly. This move forced the exchange on d4, leaving  Black with a mobile pawn chain on the queenside. The player who played this  relieveing move most often was Peter Svidler. There are 3 games from 2013 year  in my database where Svidler plays Black in this position.} (10... Bxd5 {Is  not a good idea} 11. exd5 Na5 12. Ba2 {And White is simply better}) (10... Na5  {Would result in an inferior position for Black} 11. Nxf6+ Bxf6 12. Bxe6 fxe6  13. b4 Nc6 14. Be3 {And White is clearly better}) 11. Nxd4 {[pgndiagram]  Nothing else really brings any advantage} (11. Nxe7+ Qxe7 12. Nxd4 exd4 13. Bg5  Bxb3 {And Black has probably equalized. And he even went on to win. Ivanchuk -  Svidler, Thessaloniki, 2013}) 11... exd4 12. Nxf6+ (12. Nxe7+ {Would leave to  variations examined after 11 Nxe7}) 12... Bxf6 13. Bxe6 fxe6 {[pgndiagram] It  is time to pause and evaluate the result of the opening. Black has a doubled  pawn on the d-file, but it is hard for White to attack it or to play against  it. Furthermore, after the potential d5 in the future it is easy to get rid of  that "weakness" On the other hand, White has a kingside pawn majority. So he  will play on that wing.} 14. f4 {Making a useful move while keeping his queen  on the starting square for the moment and retaining the option of the quick g4  push} (14. a4 {[pgndiagram] Both Anand and Dominguez Perez played this move  against Svidler in the 2013} Qd7 (14... c5 {Was Svidler's choice against Anand}  15. Qg4 Qd7 16. axb5 axb5 17. Bd2 {And he immediately equalized}) 15. b3 c5 16.  Qg4 Qf7 (16... b4 $5 {Is a possible improvement}) 17. Bd2 c4) 14... c5 {  [pgndiagram] Apparently a novelty of the game. Black creates a "triangle" in  the centre, and has ideas about pushing further in the future.} (14... e5 {Is  another idea} 15. f5 d5 16. Qe2 c5 17. g4 c4 {And Black's counterplay on the  queenside probably balances White's push on the kingside}) 15. Qg4 {  [pgndiagram]Typical move for this variation} (15. Rf3 {Is now met by} d5 16. e5  Be7 17. Rh3 g6 {And White' attack is nonexistent}) 15... Qd7 16. f5 $6 {I  think this is creating tension too early. White is not sufficiently developed}  (16. Bd2 Rf7 17. b3 Raf8 {Shouldn't pose Black much problems either, though.  It seems like whole variation is relatively harmless}) 16... Rae8 {[pgndiagram]  Black had sevelar ways of reaching equality} (16... exf5 17. Rxf5 Rf7 18. Bd2  Be5 {Is probably most clear cut way to equality}) (16... e5 $5 {Is also a  possibility}) 17. Bd2 {Finally completing the development. Karjakin prefers to  keep the tension in the centre for the time being} (17. fxe6 Qxe6 18. Qxe6+  Rxe6 19. Bd2 Be5 {Is equal}) (17. a4 d5 18. axb5 axb5 {And Black has no  problemos}) 17... c4 $5 {[pgndiagram] Sharpening the play. Magnus sets his  queenside pawns in the motion} (17... exf5 {Was once again easy path to  equality} 18. Rxf5 Rf7 19. Raf1 Be5) 18. h3 $6 {This is probably a bit too  slow in a position like this. White's idea is to defend the queen and prepare  the future h3-g4} (18. fxe6 Qxe6 19. Qxe6+ Rxe6 20. Bb4 Rd8 21. Rf5 {Is  probably equal as well, though}) 18... c3 $5 {[pgndiagram] Trying to set  concrete problems for White.} (18... e5 $5 {Was another interesting idea.  Trying to close the centre in order to play on the queenside.} 19. Qf3 Rc8 20.  g4 h6 21. Rac1 cxd3 22. cxd3 Qf7 {And after this approximate variation Black  should be slightly better. White's attack on the queenside is long in coming})  19. bxc3 d5 $1 {Carlsen probably prepared this move already when considering  18...c3!?. It came as clear surprise to Karjakin, who now had to consider  multiple options and captures.} 20. Bg5 {Karjakin choses a save path} (20. fxe6  {[pgndiagram] First of all, this obvious capture may lead to some problems}  Qxe6 21. Qxe6+ Rxe6 22. exd5 Re2 23. Rf2 Rxf2 24. Kxf2 Bg5+ 25. Ke2 Bxd2 26.  Kxd2 Rf2+ 27. Ke1 Rxg2 {[pgndiagram] And it is not at all easy to evaluate  this position} 28. Kf1 Rh2 29. Kg1 Re2 {And the position is equal.} (29... Rxc2  $4 {Would be terrible} 30. d6 Kf7 31. Re1) 30. a4 Kf7 31. axb5 axb5 32. d6) (  20. exd5 {[pgndiagram] Would be very bad decision} dxc3 $5 {A great move. It  leads to same variation as immediate capture on f5, but it is really beautiful.  To be honest I haven't seen mentioned by either GM Hess in his chesscom  analysis, or by GM So in his chessbase analysis.} (20... exf5 21. Qf3 dxc3 22.  Be3 {Would transpose of course}) 21. Be3 (21. dxe6 Qa7+) 21... exf5 22. Qf3 Qd6  {And Black has some chances to press for the win}) (20. c4 {[pgndiagram]  Finally, this move is also possible. White admits c pawn will be lost anyway  and gets rid of it right away.} dxe4 $1 {The only move for Black that doesn't  land him into a worse position} (20... bxc4 {Is now bad} 21. Bb4 Rf7 22. fxe6  Qxe6 23. Qxe6 Rxe6 24. exd5 {And now White is suddenly better}) 21. Bb4 exf5  22. Qxf5 Rf7 23. cxb5 axb5 24. dxe4 Qxf5 25. exf5 {[pgndiagram] And after the  dust has settled, an equal endgame is on the board}) 20... Bxg5 21. Qxg5 dxe4  22. fxe6 Rxf1+ 23. Rxf1 Qxe6 24. cxd4 e3 $5 {[pgndiagram] Carlsen avoids the  immedate draw and tries to use his last chance - the passed e-pawn.} (24...  exd3 25. cxd3 Qe3+ 26. Qxe3 Rxe3 {Is an easy draw}) 25. Re1 h6 {Creating some  breathing space for the king with tempo is always a good idea} 26. Qh5 e2 27.  Qf3 {[pgndiagram] White has enough resources to deal with the e-pawn} (27. Kf2  $4 {Would be a terrible blunder} Qe3# {And White gets mated}) 27... a5 {  Carlsen's idea is b4-a4-a3-a2-a1-e1Q. Of course, he will have none of that} 28.  c3 {Forestalling Black's idea} Qa2 $5 {The last try. White has to reckon with  Qd2 ideas} 29. Qc6 $1 {Precise defence that soon leads to perpetual check} Re6  {[pgndiagram] There is no much difference in the position of the rook.} (29...  Re7 30. Qc8+ Kh7 31. Qf8 Qd2 32. Qxe7 Qxe1+ 33. Kh2 {Would lead to the same  perpetual that appeared in the actual game}) 30. Qc8+ Kh7 31. c4 {And now the  draw is practically forced} Qd2 32. Qxe6 Qxe1+ 33. Kh2 Qf2 34. Qe4+ {And here  the draw was agreed. Another very correct game by both players where it was  again Carlsen who brought the excitement at the board. He seemed very  confident after his win, but Karjakin also played very precisely.} 1/2-1/2

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To sum up, before the last game Carlsen has both the White pieces and psychological advantage. I think he has really decent chances to finish the match before the “extra time”. However, one potential danger he is facing might be his “overeagerness” to do that. Hopefully, we Carlsen fans will not go through another game similar to Carlsen – Karjakin game eight.

But to find that out, we will have to be patient untill tomorrow. Because patience is a virtue, right?

It probably depends who are you asking.

The post Carlsen – Karjakin, Game eleven appeared first on Chessentials.

Carlsen – Karjakin, game ten

Mistreaver — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 22:09:30 +0000

CARLSEN GRINDS THE WIN AFTER THE “COMEDY OF ERRORS” IN GAME TEN

I would like to start this post with the good old Latin saying, that goes “Errare humanum est, perservare diabolicum.”

Because, to the endless joy of all the haters of “Dicta et sententiae“, Carlsen – Karjakin game ten confirmed that everything with the “Roman origin” should be taken “cum grano salis”.

If you are not familiar with the translation because you have life, let me explain. The rough translation of the saying above would be : “It is of the human to make mistakes, it is of the devil to continue making them.

And while Karjakin was the one that kept making mistakes, Carlsen was the one “devilishly” lucky to avoid the draw in the early stages of the game ten. Therefore, with the simple deduction it is easy to conclude that “There is something rotten in the kingdom of.. Rome?”

Further evidence can be found in the fact that Carlsen can be considered a true master of the chess game.

And also, it is viable to assume that after the game Carlsen couldn’t resist but to dance a victory dance in the solitude of his apartment.

Naturally, I am getting carried away, as usual. So, for the remainder of the post, I will try to stick to chess.

GAME COURSE

Carlsen – Karjakin game ten saw the 2nd repetition of the Berlin defence in the match.

However, in contrast to game three, Carlsen avoided any sort of symmetry or endgame and opted for the move 4 d3, which was very successful for him in the past.

And already on move six he chose a rather rare continuation, which resulted in a fresh position on the board already around move 10.

Moreover, it was the type of position that suits Carlsen’s style perfectly. And he was indeed accomplishing little positional goals in the initial part of the maneuvering.

However, at the move 19 he commited the first serious error in the game. Due to taking on e6, he allowed Karjakin to snatch an immediate forced draw.

It seems like Karjakin finally got tired and/or nervous, since he decided against the knight capture and advanced in the centre instead.

GM Ivanchuk could probably tell alot about nerves

Next it was Carlsen’s turn to go wrong and allow another version of the knight sacrifice which would once again lead to a quick draw by repetition.

Luckily for the champion, the Caissa seems to be very fond of him, since Karjakin missed the forced draw once again (although the 2nd time it was rather hard to spot). As a result, he ended up in a slightly inferior endgame where there were only two possible final results. It was expected that Carlsen “The Grinderman” would torture him untill the world’s end. And beyond.

And that is exactly what happened. Magnus obviously enjoyed his position and managed to accumulate small positional gains, creating more and more problems for Karjakin. The latter defened tenaciously, though and for a long time there was nothing tangible for Carlsen.

However, the Champion continued to maneuvre quietly and shuffle his rooks up and down the board, untill finally Karjakin commited a decisive mistake, which allowed the long prepared b5- breakthrough.

In the end, there was nothing left for Karjakin to lay his weapons and admit that he has been outplayed. However, the fact that he appeared at the press conference probably won him some more admirers.

To sum up, despite the strange oversights, the game was a masterpiece by Carlsen. To be perfectly honest, I didn’t understand very much about the subtle maneuvering. I had to spent quite amount of time with the engine comparing similar positions that could arise to get a more clear picture about all the subtleties of this seemingly, very dry, game.

Therefore, without any false modesty, I think i managed to do a decent job in claryfing some subtle points of the game.

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:08:33-0:04:33"]  [Date "2016.11.24"]  [Round "10"]  [White "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Black "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Result "1-0"]  [ECO "C65"]  [PlyCount "149"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   {To be honest, I was anticipating 1 Sf3 at some point by Magnus, as Kasparov  played in the 24th game in the Seville match. But probably Magnus decided that  the "time" for such drastic measures hasn't yet arrived.} 1. e4 e5 {Of course,  there is no reason for Karjakin to deviate from the Berlin} 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5  Nf6 4. d3 $1 {I think that this is what Carlsen should have played from the  start, as the resulting positions are fully comapatibile with his style.} Bc5  5. c3 {[pgndiagram] For me it is always interesting to discover some nuances  in the move orders. White doesn't want to allow Nd4} (5. O-O Nd4 {Gives Black  this option} 6. Nxd4 Bxd4 7. c3 Bb6 {[pgndiagram] And from this position  Magnus lost his latest long time control game. Carlsen - Aronian, European  teams, 0-1. Probably it was noted by Karjakin's team}) 5... O-O 6. Bg5 $5 {And  this is already very rare.} (6. O-O {Is much more often} d6 7. Bg5 {  [pgndiagram] Most often White players wait for Black to play d6, so there  isn't any Be7 available for Black.}) 6... h6 7. Bh4 {[pgndiagram] It is  interesting to stop and consider this position for a moment.} Be7 {It is  interesting to note that the bishop retreat was Magnus' choice when he faced  this position with Black in Shirov - Carlsen, Biel 2011. Also, here is his  comment: " Once the white bishop is on h4, this loss of tempo is considered to  be justified"} (7... g5 8. Bg3 d6 9. Nbd2 {Is how the game Anand - Topalov,  Wch Saint Louis 2005 proceeded. Topalov managed to neutralize the White pieces,  but probably Karjakin didn't want to commit himself with the kingside pawn  advance so early.}) 8. O-O (8. Nbd2 {Is how the aforementioned game with  Shirov went. Magnus won that encounter as well.} d6 {And White prolonged  castling, but I am not certain about that "subtle" method} 9. Nf1) (8. Bxc6  bxc6 9. Nxe5 {[pgndiagram] doesn't win a pawn due to a standard trick} Nxe4 $1)  8... d6 9. Nbd2 Nh5 $1 {A good move. exchaning the bishop and eyeing the f4  square.} 10. Bxe7 Qxe7 11. Nc4 $1 {[pgndiagram]I like this way of maneouvering  the knight to e3 while keeping the centre static for the time being.} (11. d4 {  Was too rushed} Nf4 12. Re1 Qf6 {And black gets good counterplay}) 11... Nf4  12. Ne3 Qf6 {[pgndiagram] Maybe somewhat too cautious.} (12... f5 {Without  underestimating anyone, I think that many lower rated players would play this  "natural" move instantly I like it as well, opening the f-file and creating  breathing space for Black's pieces} 13. g3 fxe4 14. dxe4 Nh3+ 15. Kg2 Qf6 {  [pgndiagram] And Black has counterplay} 16. Qe2 Ne7 17. Ng1 $1 Nxg1 18. Rxg1 {  [pgndiagram] And in this computer variation White retains a very slight plus.  But the position is not a dead draw yet.}) 13. g3 $1 {Since white doesn't have  his light squared bishop, this might seem a little risky. But probably sooner  or later he would have to get rid of the strong BLack knight on f4.} Nh3+ 14.  Kh1 $6 {[pgndiagram] But this is indeed a bit too cautious} (14. Kg2 {Was  perfectly possible. Maybe Carlsen feared some Nf4 tactics in the future} Qg6  15. Nh4 Qg5 16. Nef5 {And White is better} Nf4+ 17. Kh1) 14... Ne7 15. Bc4 $6 {  Missing a very nice reply from black.} (15. Qe2 {Was probably better, due to a  deep computer tactic}) 15... c6 (15... b5 {[pgndiagram] While I was following  the game live on chessbomb, the computer screamed for this move to be played.  I didn't quite understand it, but it really isn't that hard} 16. Bb3 (16. Bxb5  Rb8 {Is the point. Black get's his pawn back and activates hsi rook} 17. Bc4  Rxb2 18. Kg2 {[pgndiagram] And Black's activity is worth at least for equality}  ) 16... a5 17. a4 b4 {[pgndaigram] And Black has seized some space on the  queenside}) 16. Bb3 $1 {The idea of this move is to sidestep the d5 advance in  the future} (16. a4 $5 {Preventing queenside expansion once and for all, but  allowing the centre break}) (16. d4 {[pgndiagram] Was once again too fast} exd4  17. cxd4 Re8 18. e5 dxe5 19. dxe5 Qg6 {[pgndiagram] And Qe4 is anoying threat}  20. Nh4 Qe4+ 21. Qf3 Qxf3+ 22. Nxf3 {[pgndiagram] Balck is probably even  slightly better here}) 16... Ng6 {Both sides are maneouvering for the moment}  17. Qe2 a5 18. a4 Be6 $1 {[pgndiagram] A good move and a critical moment of  the early part of the game.} 19. Bxe6 $2 {Probably it is too harsh to  accompany this move with a question mark, but it could have led to a forced  draw. Which would be terrible result for Magnus at this stage of the match.} (  19. Bc2 {[pgndiagram] First of all, this simple bishop retreat would have kept  the game going} d5 {The logical continuation of Black's game.} 20. d4 dxe4 21.  Bxe4 Rae8 {[pgndiagram] And White is probably slightly better here. And more  importantly, a complicated struggle follows}) (19. Ra3 {[pgndiagram] Secondly,  the maneovre of the rook was the suggestion of both the engine and the  Gustafsson - Svidler commentating duo} Bxb3 20. Rxb3 Rab8 21. Nd2 {And White  is much better. Black probably shouldn't exchange on b3}) (19. Nd2 {  [pgndiagram] Finally, this is the move that Wesley so claims is the best in  the position} Bxb3 20. Nxb3 Rfe8 21. Rae1 {And once again White has good  prospects, Black has to be careful about the a-pawn and White will probably  advance in the centre sooner or later}) 19... fxe6 20. Nd2 {[pgndiagram] The  first critical moment} d5 $2 {Missing a very nice tactic and indicating that  nerves are also taking its toll on the challenger, and not just the champion} (  20... Nxf2+ $1 {[pgndiagram] This move is perfectly possible, as it would  either lead to a draw, or to a position where White would be "playing with  fire" if he was to continue.} 21. Kg1 {The only way to continue} (21. Kg2 {  Would run into} Nh4+ 22. Kg1 {The knight cannot be taken} (22. gxh4 $2 Qg6+ {  [pgndiagram] And Black is winning} 23. Ng4 Nxg4) 22... Nh3+ {With perpetual  check}) 21... Nh3+ 22. Kg2 Nhf4+ $1 {[pgndiagram] Karjakin said that he missed  this move in his preliminary calculations} 23. gxf4 Nxf4+ 24. Rxf4 exf4 25. Nc2  {[pgndiagram] And I think there is no doubt that Black shouldn't be worse here.  Of course, White has some practical chances, but I think that Carlsen wouldn't  risk this much at this point and would settle for a draw earlier.}) 21. Qh5 $2  {This time it is Carlsen's turn to go wrong and allow the challenger another  opportunity to draw the game immediately} (21. f3 $1 {Was very solid and much  more in Carlsen's style. From this point White can gradually improve his  position}) 21... Ng5 $2 {Missing the chance to force a draw once again. But  too be honest this one was much harder to see than the one on move 20} (21...  Nxf2+ {[pgndiagram] Is perfectly viable here. However, the follow up is not  that obvious} 22. Kg2 {The only move} (22. Kg1 $2 {Is faulty due to a knight  fork tactic} Qg5 23. Qxg5 Nh3+ {[pgndiagram] And Black remains a healthy pawn  ahead}) 22... Qf7 {Threatening Nf4+ or Nh4 check} 23. Kg1 {And now the key  move is} Qf6 {[pgndiagram] While commentating live Peter Svidler said that it  is very hard to consider such a paradoxical computer move during the  preliminary calculations. Black simply threatens Qg5 and Nh3 again, and there  is no good way for white to avoid that}) 22. h4 $6 {Sometimes chess is amazing.  Instead of this obvious move, white had one much subtler} (22. Rae1 {This was  Svidler's find during the live feed (bear in mind that he was analysing  without the engine). The point ill be revealed soon} Nf3 23. Ng4 {And now  black must play Qg5 and play inferior endgame, because} Qf7 24. Nxf3 Qxf3+ 25.  Kg1 Ne7 26. Re3 {[pgndiagram] And amazingly, Black's queen is trapped}) 22...  Nf3 23. Nxf3 Qxf3+ 24. Qxf3 Rxf3 {[pgndiagram] The crisis is over. White has  managed to get another position where play is "only on one goal". Doubled  e-pawns are a constant headache} 25. Kg2 Rf7 (25... Raf8 26. h5 Ne7 {  [pgndiagram] And now White can almost always win the exchange} 27. Nf5 (27.  Rad1 {With Nf5 or Ng4 next is probably eeven more precise}) 27... exf5 28. Kxf3  fxe4+ 29. Ke2 exd3+ 30. Kxd3 {[pgndiagram] And White is probably close to  winning, although a technical task still remains}) 26. Rfe1 $6 {Another slight  oversight} (26. Ng4 h5 27. Nh2 {Was probably better} Raf8 28. b4) 26... h5 $6 {  And again returning the favour} (26... Raf8 {[pgndiagram] Would earn some time,  because White would have to deal with the threat to the f-pawn} 27. Nd1 (27.  Re2 {Which is what Magnus probably planned, would enter into tactical counter}  dxe4 {I think that if Black plans to go Nf4, he should first exchange on e4.  The reason will be soon apparent} (27... Nf4+ {[pgndiagram] However, here the  machine finds the strong counter, so therefore taking on e4 is probably better}  28. gxf4 exf4 29. Nf5 $1 exf5 30. exd5 cxd5 31. Kf3) 28. dxe4 Nf4+ {  [pgndiagram] Now this works, since Black won't have the weakness on d5 after  Nf5} 29. gxf4 exf4 30. Nf5 exf5 31. e5 g5) 27... d4 28. Ra3 {And Black's  position is better than after what happened in the game}) 27. Nf1 {[pgndiagram]  Now everything is in order once again. White has alot of ideas. He can play  both in the centre with d4 and on the queenside with b4, when favourable  circumstances arive. More importantly, Black doesn't have any active  counterplay} Kf8 (27... Raf8 {Would only prolong, but not hinder White's plan}  28. Re2 Rf3 29. Ne3 R3f7 30. Nc2) 28. Nd2 Ke7 29. Re2 {[pgndiagram] There is  no reason to hurry I think} (29. Rab1 {Is something computer wants to do} Kd6  30. b4 axb4 31. Rxb4 {[pgndiagram] And here White has a pleasant position} Nf8  32. d4 exd4 33. cxd4 Ra7 34. Nf3 {[pgndiagram] And in this approxiamte  variation you can see that Black is very much on the defensive}) (29. Nf3 $2 {  Only not this move} Raf8 30. Re3 d4 31. cxd4 exd4 32. Nxd4 Rxf2+ {[pgndiagram]  And Black is winning probably}) 29... Kd6 30. Nf3 Raf8 31. Ng5 Re7 {  [pgndiagram] Black can only wait passively and see from which way will White's  punches come} 32. Rae1 {White is probing the e-pawn} Rfe8 {And Black defends}  33. Nf3 Nh8 $6 {Knight is heading f7 and then f5 potentially, but this should  be too slow} (33... Nf8 $5 {[pgndiagram] Is interesting, but to Black still  has problems} 34. b4 $1 {Emphasizing that Black has weaknesses both in the  centre and on the queenside} Nd7 35. bxa5 Ra8 {The critical moment} (35... Nc5  {[pgndiagram] Would run into tactical blow} 36. Nxe5 Kxe5 37. d4+) 36. d4 $1 {  [pgndiagram] Now when the Black has removed the rook, striking in the centre.  And probably collecting the e-pawn} Rxa5 (36... exd4 37. Nxd4) 37. exd5 exd5  38. Nxe5 Nxe5 39. Rxe5 Rxe5 40. Rxe5 Rxa4 41. Rg5) 34. d4 {[pgndiagram]  Carlsen choses the central breakthrough. It was doubted by the chess24  commentating duo, but there is nothing wrong with this move} (34. b4 {Was  possible of course} axb4 {There is nothing better though} (34... Nf7 35. bxa5  Ra8 36. exd5 exd5 37. Nd4 $1 {[pgndiagram] The key move} g6 38. Nb3 {And White  is in control})) 34... exd4 35. Nxd4 g6 36. Re3 {[pgndiagram] Preparing the  movement of the rook along the 3rd rank. Also going for the Re3-Rf3-Rf6  maneouvre in the future} (36. b4 {Was possible an almost every White move} axb4  37. cxb4 e5 38. Nb3 d4 39. f4 Nf7 {[pgndiagram] But here White ends up in an  inferior version of the endgame. e5-d4 probably shouldn't be allowed}) 36...  Nf7 (36... e5 37. Nb3 b6 38. Rd1 {[pgndiagram] The king in the centre is a  problem} Ke6 39. exd5+ cxd5 40. Nc1 Nf7 41. Ne2 {[pgndiagram] And Nf4 threat  is very dangerous} Kd6 42. Red3) 37. e5+ Kd7 38. Rf3 $6 {[pgndiagram] Again b4  was possible immediately, but Carlsen first wants to probe the g6 weakness.  However, this gives Black a chance to play actively for the first time} (38. b4  axb4 39. cxb4 Nh6 40. Nb3) (38. c4 {[pgndiagram] Is now not so good} c5 39. Nb3  d4 {And this tempo move is hitting the rook here}) 38... Nh6 $6 {[pgndiagram]  Natural and uncommital move, heading for the f-pawn, but nevertheless not the  best} (38... c5 {Setting the queenside pawns in the motion and grabbing some  space was good. White would have to forget about b4 forever} 39. Nb3 b6 40. Rf6  Rg8 41. Nd2 Nd8 42. Re3 Kc6 {[pgndiagram] And Black's position is much more  resilient than the one with the b4-a5 White pawn duo}) 39. Rf6 Rg7 40. b4 $1 {  [pgndiagram]Finally White plays this breakthrough} (40. c4 {In the given  position this was a possible path, because of the king position} Nf5 (40... c5  41. Nb3 {And now d4 is not gaining a tempo}) (40... dxc4 41. Rd1 {Wins the e6  pawn}) 41. Nb3 {[pgndiagram]} b6 42. c5 Kc7 43. cxb6+ Kxb6 44. Rc1 {[pgniagram]  And White is close to winning. Black has many many many weaknesses}) 40... axb4  41. cxb4 Ng8 42. Rf3 Nh6 43. a5 {[pgndiagram] White has managed to form the  ideal pawn construction. Black is confined to back two ranks} Nf5 44. Nb3 {  [pgndiagram] Black can again only wait. White's plan is to rearange his pieces  and deliver the b5 breakthrough under favourable circumstances. The time has  not arrived for that yet, though} Kc7 45. Nc5 {[pgndiagram] Weasley So was  very critical of this move} (45. Rc1 {So claimed that this would win for White.  } Kb8 (45... g5 {This pawn push was examined repeatedly by Svidler and  Gustafsson, but with the knight on c5. As we will see later, there they could  never make it work because of Nxe6 tactic. But it also shows that top  grandmasters are always looking for counterplay possibilities} 46. hxg5 Rxg5  47. Rf4 h4 48. g4 h3+ 49. Kh2 Ne7 {[pgndiagram] And White's position is close  to winning.}) 46. a6 $1 {After this he may well be right} Rc7 47. Rfc3 bxa6 48.  Rxc6 Rxc6 49. Rxc6 Kb7 50. Na5+ Ka7 {[pgndiagram] And this position should be  considered a technical task for a player of Magnus' calibre.}) 45... Kb8 (45...  g5 {Doesn't work} 46. Nxe6+ Rxe6 47. Rxf5) 46. Rb1 {Preparing the future b5  break} Ka7 47. Rd3 Rc7 {[pgndiagram] Black has to wait passively} (47... g5 $6  48. hxg5 Rxg5 49. b5 cxb5 50. Rxb5 Re7 51. Rdb3 Rgg7 52. R3b4 {[pgndiagram]  And Black is even more passive than in the game. a6 is also coming soon} Rh7  53. a6 bxa6 54. Rb6 {And Black is lost}) 48. Ra3 Nd4 49. Rd1 Nf5 {[pgndiagram]  Black has to keep his knight near f5} (49... Nb5 {Is preventing the b5 break,  but now the punch comes from the other side} 50. Rf3 Rg7 51. Rf6 {[pgndiagram]  And although here computer shows enormous advantage, I haven't been able to  find anything definite for White. Probably transfering the knight on f4 is the  best idea} Nc7 52. Nd3 (52. f4 {Is computer's suggestion, but I don't see how  White can make progress after this} Ree7 53. Kf3 Re8 54. Ke3 Ree7 55. Ra1 Re8)  52... Ree7 53. Nf4 Ref7 54. Nxe6 Nxe6 55. Rxe6 {[pgndiagram] With a won endgame  }) 50. Kh3 {There is absolutely no need to hurry. The stakes are high} Nh6 51.  f3 {Now White can aim for g4 or b5 or Nd3-Nf4} Rf7 {[pgndiagram]} (51... Nf7 {  Attacking the e-pawn, was interesting} 52. Nd3 Nh6 53. Nf4 Rg7 54. a6 b6 55.  Rc1) 52. Rd4 Nf5 {[pgndiagram]} (52... Rf5 {Was a possibility. White would  ideally avoid commiting with f4} 53. Re3 Nf7 54. f4 (54. Nd3 g5 {And Black  gets some counterplay at least} 55. hxg5 Nxg5+ 56. Kg2 b6) 54... Nh6 55. Ra3  Rf7 {And it is not clear how White intends to breakthrough} 56. Rd2 Nf5 57. Rb2  Nd4 {[pgndiagram] And b5 is impossible for the moment}) 53. Rd2 Rh7 54. Rb3  Ree7 $6 {It is very difficult to understand all the nuances of this position} (  54... Rf7 $1 {[pgndiagram] Was a better option. Black would like to play Rc6  after the b5 breakthrough. The move played by Karjakin doesn't allow that  since e6 would fall} 55. b5 {White should probably deffer this, but we will  demonstrate Black's idea} cxb5 56. Rxb5 Rc7 57. Rdb2 Ree7 58. R2b4 Ne3 {  [pgndiagram] And black has equalized}) 55. Rdd3 (55. b5 {Was now possible} cxb5  56. Rxb5 Rhg7 57. Rdb2 {[pgndiagram] And you can see how superior White's  position is compared to one after 54... Rf7} (57. g4 $5 {This is an important  moment. Here Black can met g4 by Ne3. When the White rook is on d3 Ne3 is  impossible and Black stands clearly worse. See analysis after 56th move} Ne3)  57... Ne3 58. f4 Nc4 59. R2b3 Rgf7 60. Kg2) 55... Rh8 56. Rb1 Rhh7 $2 {And  this is the decisive mistake White was waiting for. To me it is not even  remotely clear what difference does it make compared to the earlier play,  except that Black cannot put a rook on c file after b5} (56... Nh6 57. b5 cxb5  58. Rxb5 Rc8 {Is the point. Black would like to put a rook on c file after  White has opened with b5}) 57. b5 $1 {[pgndiagram] Compared to the position on  the 55th move, White's rooks are on d3 and b1 instead of d2 and b3.} cxb5 58.  Rxb5 d4 (58... Rhg7 59. g4 {And now there is no Ne3. Chess is really a  fantastic game.}) 59. Rb6 {[pgndiagram] Now e6 falls, and White is clearly  winning} Rc7 60. Nxe6 Rc3 61. Nf4 {[pgndiagram] It is instructive to watch how  Magnus converts his advantage} Rhc7 62. Nd5 {[pgndiagram] Carlsen takes a very  practical decision to exchange a pair of rooks and therefore clarify the  situation} (62. Rxg6 Rxd3 63. Nxd3 Rc3 64. Rf6 Ne7 65. Nf4 Rxf3 {[pgndiagram]  Was good, but more complicated and computer solution}) 62... Rxd3 63. Nxc7 {  [pgndiagram]} Kb8 (63... Rd1 64. Nb5+ Kb8 (64... Ka8 65. Rf6 {And mate in 5})  65. a6) 64. Nb5 Kc8 {Moving from the pin} (64... Rxf3 65. a6) 65. Rxg6 Rxf3 66.  Kg2 {Very precise. Bringing the king closer} (66. e6 $2 {[pgndiagram] It is  never to late to spoil a chess game} Kd8) (66. Nd6+ {Immediately is not so good  } Nxd6 67. Rxd6 Re3 68. e6 Re4 69. e7 Rxe7 70. Rxd4 Re5 71. Ra4) 66... Rb3 67.  Nd6+ Nxd6 68. Rxd6 {[pgndiagram]And now White managed to put his rook on the  ideal d5 square} Re3 $6 (68... Rb5 69. e6 Kc7 70. e7 Re5 71. Rxd4 Rxe7 72. Rd5)  (68... Kc7 {Was the best defensive try} 69. Rxd4 Rb5 70. Re4 Rxa5 71. Kf3 {  [pgndiagram] And White should still be winning, although some technique is  still required}) 69. e6 Kc7 70. Rxd4 Rxe6 71. Rd5 {[pgndiagram] Karjakin could  have resigned here. The White rook finds itself on an ideal square, defending  a5 and attacking h5} Rh6 72. Kf3 Kb8 73. Kf4 Ka7 74. Kg5 Rh8 75. Kf6 {  [pgndiagram] Next is Kg7 and White will win. A game of enormous significance,  both for this match and for the chess history. Exploiting the drawing chance  on move 20 would put Carlsen in a desperate situation, where he would have  only two more games to save his title. However, "fortune" follows the brave,  and Magnus probably deserved to have at least equal score at this point of the  match. It will be interesting to follow the two remaining games, since Magnus  will probably get huge psychological boost because of this result.} 1-0

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To conclude, game ten once again, after the Kasparov – Anand 1995 match, proved to be very lucky for the reigning champion.

And I can imagine that many people will say that it is ridiculous to compare this two instances. Because Kasparov crushed Anand after displaying probably the most brilliant piece of preparation in chess history, while Carlsen “simply” exploited Karjakin’s uncharacteristic mistakes.

However, it is important bear in mind the ancient quote that “A good player is always lucky”. Because Kasparov wouldn’t have been able to display his preparation if Anand didn’t naively repeat the variation that already appeared in the match.

And remember also that in the game eleven of the same match Anand blundered horribly in an equal position. After which he nevered recovered and the match was practically decided.

Therefore, trying to criticize Carslen because Karjakin made mistakes would be unfair.

Judging by the play in the match, he didn’t deserve to trail at this moment. And even though Karjakin blundered, the technical play Magnus displayed in the endgame cannot be praised highly enough. The game is a technical masterpiece.

Anyway, there are only two remaining games. The match tension is at its peak and it will be interesting to see whether players will be agressive with White pieces, or opt for safety and head for the tiebreaks.

(Actually, since I am a bit late with this post, it seems that game eleven might finish with a quick draw).

There is no denying that Magnus has the psychological advantage now though. And we might remember the words of another prominent chess player for the end.

Alexander the Great certainly knew a thing or two about chess

The post Carlsen – Karjakin, game ten appeared first on Chessentials.

Carlsen – Karjakin, game nine

Mistreaver — Thu, 24 Nov 2016 21:22:12 +0000

CARLSEN LIVES TO FIGHT ANOTHER GAME AFTER ESCAPE IN GAME NINE

Since I am a Magnus fan, I am really happy that I could write that he lives, instead of leaves, after Carlsen – Karjakin game nine.

On the other hand considering the quality of that joke, Karjakin’s win would probably be for the greater good.

Anyway, Carlsen – Karjakin game nine almost ended in another bloodshed and another victory for Karjakin. In the critical moment on move 39, he decided to sacrifice the bishop, which looked very strong.

However, Magnus defended brilliantly and managed to enter an endgame where he was only a pawn down. Since all the pawns were on the same wing, a draw was inevitable, and the Champion’s hope is still remaining.

It is uncertain whether the match would be virtually over if Karjakin played the quiet 39 Qb3 instead of bishop sacrifice. Some commentators exclaimed it is winning, because Black is virtually forced to enter and endgame with two pawns less.

However, while commentating the game live, grandmasters Svidler and Gustafsson reached a position where black is two pawns down. And they expressed their doubts about whether that position is winning for White.

Therefore I wouldn’t venture to give a clear verdict whether Karjakin’s position was totally won. But the fact that Karjakin missed serious practical chances remains.

GAME COURSE

For the third time in the match the game opened as a Closed Ruy Lopez. And for the third time in the match there was a third variation of the inexhaustible “Queen of Openings.”

Therefore, after offering two Marshall gambits in games two and four, Carlsen was the first two deviate. This time he chose the Neo – Arkhangelsk variation of the Ruy Lopez, characterized by the move 6… Bc5. The last time he played this line was back in 2011, but Karjakin wasn’t surprised once again.

Therefore, both players blitzed their moves as they were following the recent Nakamura – Kasimdzhanov game from the Tromso 2014 Olympiad.

Furthermore, Magnus proved to be better prepared once again, as he improved on the play of the former FIDE champion on move 21. However, even with such a brilliant preparation he managed only to reach the position which could best be described with the eternal “dynamic equillibrium” evaluation.

Karjakin therefore wasn’t rattled at all. With his bishop pair and extra pawn he didn’t have any serious problems And when Magnus commited a small inaccuracy on move 33…, he was rather quick to seize the initiative.

With the time trouble approaching, Magnus had some concrete problems to solve. And once again he didn’t display his best form, since he commited serious mistake on move 38, leading to the critical choice for Karjakin on move 39, as already mentioned in the introduction.

However, Magnus managed to defend his position tenaciously and treat us with his appearance at the post game press conference.

Which due to the rich chess content of the game turned out to be one of the best chess press conferences in a long time.

GAME ANALYSIS

[Event "Carlsen - Karjakin World Championship"]  [Site "0:26:33-0:39:33"]  [Date "2016.11.23"]  [Round "9"]  [White "Sergey Karjakin"]  [Black "Magnus Carlsen"]  [Result "1/2-1/2"]  [ECO "C78"]  [PlyCount "148"]  [EventDate "2016.11.11"]   1. e4 {I like this decision by Karjakin. He doesn't chicken after the victory,  but continues to playing principaly.} e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 {So, for the 3rd  time in the match we have the Closed Ruy Lopez on the board.} 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O  b5 6. Bb3 Bc5 {[pgndiagram] A new variation. Instead of offering Marshall as  in games 2 and 4, Magnus goes for the Neo - Arkhangelsk variation. I think  that in modern times the move 6...Bc5 is played exclusively instead of the old  6... Bb7. It is curious to see what Garry Kasparov wrote about this in his  "Revolution in the 70s": "Apparently, Malanyuk was the first to conclude that  Black should not hurry with 6... Bb7, and he began emplyoing the improved  variation with 6.. Bc5" I am not versed enough into all the nuances to  understand why this is so to be honest.} 7. a4 {This 7th move is more rare  than c3.} (7. c3 d6 8. d4 {Is more topical} Bb6 9. a4 Bb7) 7... Rb8 {The main  reply to 7... Ra4.} (7... Bb7 8. d3 (8. c3 {[pgndiagram]} d6 9. d4 Bb6 {  Transposes to the main line examined under 7 c3.}) 8... b4) (7... Nxe4 $4 8.  axb5) 8. c3 (8. Nxe5 {[pgndiagram] Is the alternative.} Nxe5 9. d4 Bxd4 10.  Qxd4 d6 {[pgndiagram] And White's advantage is minimal, Topalov - Nakamura,  Norway Chess, 2015}) 8... d6 (8... Nxe4 {[pgndiagram] Is not to be advised} 9.  d4 exd4 10. cxd4 Bb4 11. d5 Na5 12. Bc2 Nf6 13. Re1+ $1 {[pgndiagram] A key  move} Bxe1 14. Qxe1+ Kf8 15. Qxa5 {With decisive advantage to White}) 9. d4 {  Occupying the centre and forcing a series of exchanges} Bb6 (9... exd4 $6 10.  cxd4 Bb6 11. axb5 axb5 12. Nc3 {[pgndiagram] It is better not to clear the c3  square for the White knight.}) 10. axb5 axb5 11. Na3 O-O 12. Nxb5 {[pgndiagram]  The typical position for this variation is on the board. White has captured  the b-pawn, but he is behind in development.} Bg4 {Exerting pressure to the  centre.} (12... Nxe4 $4 {Is never advisable in this variation.} 13. Bd5) 13.  Bc2 (13. d5 {[pgndiagram]Trying to save the pawn without concesion is second  possibility} Ne7 14. Qd3 Ng6 {But closing the centre has left the White light  squared bishop rather passive. Black can generate play on the kingside and has  sufficient counterplay.}) 13... exd4 {This is all still theory.} 14. Nbxd4 (14.  cxd4 {Was Giri - Nakamura, Norway chess 2015. Both captures are possible and  there is no definitive answer which one is better yet.}) 14... Nxd4 15. cxd4  Bxf3 16. gxf3 {[pgndiagram] The point of the variation. Black gives his bishop  pair and a pawn. As a compensation he shatters White's kingside structure. To  be honest, I am surprised that Magnus didn't go for Sicilian, or maybe even  French defence, in order to generate more imbalances. Because I think here it  is hard to play for win with Black. But then again, maybe it wasn't  neccessary to go all in with the Black pieces yet.} (16. Qxf3 Bxd4 {Is not  advisable, of course}) 16... Nh5 17. Kh1 Qf6 {Preventing f4} (17... c5 $6 {  [pgndiagram] Is computer's first suggestion, striking the centre before moving  the queen to f6 and bishop to e3.} 18. f4 {And only now does the computer  understand that f4 should be prevented}) 18. Be3 c5 {[pgndiagram] Striking the  centre. But this is still not new move} (18... Ra8 19. Rxa8 Rxa8 20. Rg1 Nf4  21. Bb3 {And here Black should be okay, but Karjakin managed to beat Adams,  Karjakin - Adams, Baku 2008}) 19. e5 {The best indication that both players  were still in their preparation are the times: 1:39:40 for Karjakin, 1:39:40  Carlsen (they start with 1:40:00)} Qe6 (19... dxe5 20. dxc5 {Is bad}) 20. exd6  {Only here did Karjakin start to think.} c4 $5 (20... cxd4 {[pgndiagram] Would  allow White to keep on playing without any risk} 21. Bxd4 Qxd6 22. Bc3) 21. b3  {The player's have been following the game Nakamura - Kasimdzhanov, Tromso  Olympiad 2014. Talking about the preparation} (21. Ra4 {[pgndiagram] Is  computer's suggestion, attacking the pawn immediately} Rfc8 22. Rg1 g6 23. f4 {  But this just looks risky and unhuman. And also WHite probably just doesn't  have anything}) 21... cxb3 $1 {The novelty and apparently the first choice of  the computer. Black doesn't philosophise, but just exchanges another pawn.} (  21... c3 {[pgndiagram] Is how the aforementioned game went} 22. d5 Qxd6 23. Qd3  {And White gained the upper hand and went on to win. Nakamura - Kasimdzhanov,  Tromso Olympiad, 2014}) 22. Bxb3 Qxd6 {[pgndiagram] Magnus still had 1:40:00  left on his clock. Once again he has reached probably equal position, but too  be honest Black doesn't have many chances to create some problems as well.} 23.  Ra6 $1 {A good move, preventing Bc7 with mate threats.} Rfd8 {I am not sure  whether this rook belongs here or on the c-file} (23... Qd7 {[pgndiagram]  Immediately steping out of the pin, was maybe a tad more precise.} 24. Rg1 g6  25. Rg4 Qb7 {The point, the rook is not neccessary on d8 and black craetes  double attack on the rook and bishop} 26. Bc4 Rfc8 {With equality}) 24. Rg1 (  24. d5 {Feels somehow wrong, shutting the light squared bishop} Nf4) 24... Qd7  25. Rg4 {A nice maneovre. Rook heads for f4 where he will keep the queen away  from h-file} (25. Bc4 {[pgndiagram]Intending to put the bishop on f1, is  interesting} Bxd4 26. Bg5 Rdc8 27. Ra4 {[pgndiagram] And suddenly there i  Bxf7+ threat. But this is too deep and inhuman}) 25... Nf6 26. Rh4 Qb5 (26...  Qb7 $5 {[pgndiagram] I still like this idea} 27. Bc4 Rdc8) 27. Ra1 {Defending  the d4 by tactics.} g6 {Creating some space for the king.} (27... Bxd4 $2 {  [pgndiagram] Would be a huge blunder.} 28. Rxd4 Rxd4 29. Bxd4 Qxb3 30. Qxb3  Rxb3 31. Ra8+) 28. Rb1 Qd7 29. Qd3 (29. Bg5 $5 {[pgndiagram] Would be a nice  try.} Qf5 {The best move.} (29... Bxd4 {Would allow sacrifice on f7} 30. Bxf7+  Kxf7 31. Rxb8 Rxb8 32. Bxf6 Kxf6 33. Rxd4 {[pgndiagram] And I wouldn't like to  play with such a king, but it probably is drawn nevertheless})) 29... Nd5 30.  Rg1 {The position is still "dynamically balanced", but Carlsen has to be  careful, since the bishops are exerting some pressure.} Bc7 (30... Qc6 {Not  blocking the rook was interesting} 31. Qf5 (31. Bg5 Rd6) 31... Qf6 32. Qxf6  Nxf6 {And Black is probably around equal}) 31. Bg5 Re8 {[pgndiagram] I am not  certain whether this is the most accurate} (31... Rdc8 {Preventing Qc4 might  be more accurate} 32. Qc4 $2 Bxh2 33. Qxd5 Qxd5 34. Bxd5 Bxg1 35. Kxg1 Rb5 {  [pgndiagram] The point. One of the White bishops now falls}) 32. Qc4 Rb5 {A  seemingly awkward move} 33. Qc2 (33. Ba4 {[pgndiagram] Is seemingly winning on  the spot, but Black has nice resource} Qf5 34. Qf1 {The only move. Qxf3 is a  real threat} (34. Bxb5 Qxf3+ 35. Rg2 Re1+) 34... Rb1 35. Qxb1 Qxf3+ 36. Rg2 {  [pgndiagram] And what should Black play now?} Nc3 $1 37. Qf1 Nxa4 {And Black  is equal even with the exhange minus}) 33... Ra8 $6 {Another indication of  Carlsen's indifferent form} (33... Nb4 $4 {[pgndiagram] A nice variation was  demonstrated by Karjakin} 34. Qxg6+ $3 hxg6 35. Bf6 {And Black gets mated}) (  33... Rb4 {Attacking d4 might be the best} 34. Qd3 Reb8 {And Black gets some  serious counterplay}) 34. Bc4 Rba5 35. Bd2 {[pgndiagram] Black hasn't  accomplished much by doubling on the a-file} Ra4 {Trying to destablize White's  pieces before exchanging rooks.} (35... Ra1 {Was immediately possible} 36. Rxa1  Rxa1+ 37. Kg2 {[pgndiagram] And it is interesting to compare this variation to  the one from the game. What difference does it make whether Queen is on c2 or  d3?} Bd8 38. Re4 Nf6 39. Re5 Bc7 40. Bb5 Qd8 {[pgndiagram] And here is the  difference. With the queen on c2 Rc5 threatens the bishop on c7,} 41. Rc5 Ra7  42. Bf4 {[pgndiagram]} Nd5 43. Bxc7 Nxc7 {And White is slightly better,}) 36.  Qd3 Ra1 37. Rxa1 Rxa1+ 38. Kg2 {The culminating point of the game.} Ne7 $2 {  [pgndiagram] I think it is correct to call this move a blunder. I think that  it might have cost Magnus the match and probably his title as well.} (38... Bd8  {Was one of the ways to keep defending comfortably} 39. Re4 Nf6 40. Re5 Bc7 41.  Bb5 Qd8 {[pgndiagram] And when compared with the position with the queen on c2,  the bishop on c7 is not hanging. Therefore, Black can get his draw rather  easily.} 42. Rc5 Qd6) 39. Bxf7+ $2 {It is hard to criticise this move, but  apparently it is not the best.} (39. Qb3 {[pgndiagram] Was very unpleasant} Nf5  40. Bxf7+ {And Carlsen would have extremely hard choice to face just before  the time control.} Qxf7 {I think this is better way to try and save the game} (  40... Kg7 41. Rh3 Qe7 42. Bg8 $3 {[pgndiagram] And White is winning} h5 43. d5  {But as svidler said, "Good luck finding this at the board"}) 41. Qxf7+ Kxf7  42. Rxh7+ Kg8 $1 (42... Ke6 43. Rxc7 Nxd4 44. Rg7) 43. Rxc7 Nxd4 {[pgndiagram]  And I am not certain about the evaluation.  Peter Svidler in his recap  of the game said that with the king cut off, the endgame should be convertible.}) 39... Kxf7 40. Qc4+ (40. Rxh7+ $5 {[pgndiagram] Nice, but not the best  } Kg8 41. Qxg6+ Nxg6 42. Rxd7 {And White doesn't have winning chances}) 40...  Kg7 41. d5 {[pgndiagram] The point of the combination. White threatens Bc3 and  Bh6 as well} Nf5 (41... Ra3 42. Bh6+) (41... g5 {Was crazy engine suggestion}  42. Bc3+ (42. Bxg5 Ng6) 42... Kg6 43. Qd3+ Qf5 44. Re4 Ra4 {[pgndiagram] But  it is no wonder why Magnus didn't go for this}) 42. Bc3+ Kf8 43. Bxa1 Nxh4+ 44.  Qxh4 Qxd5 {[pgndiagram] Unfortunately for Karjakin, this combination has left  him in a position where he doesn't have serious winning chances} 45. Qf6+ (45.  Qxh7 $2 Qg5+ {And perpetual is immediate} 46. Kh3 Qf5+) 45... Qf7 46. Qd4 {  [pgndiagram] Naturally, Karjakin is entitled to play this position for a win,  but I think losing such a position at this level isn't to be expected} Ke8 47.  Qe4+ Qe7 48. Qd5 Bd8 49. Kf1 Qf7 50. Qe4+ Qe7 51. Be5 Qe6 52. Kg2 Be7 53. Qa8+  Kf7 54. Qh8 h5 55. Qg7+ Ke8 56. Bf4 Qf7 57. Qh8+ {[pgndiagram] White simply  doesn't have targets} Qf8 58. Qd4 Qf5 59. Qc4 Kd7 (59... Kf8 {[pgndiagram] Is  also not losing} 60. Bh6+ Ke8 61. Qg8+ Kd7) 60. Bd2 Qe6 61. Qa4+ Qc6 $1 {Only  here did Carlsen have to find the only move} (61... Kd8 $2 {[pgndiagram] Would  be awful} 62. Ba5+ Kc8 63. Qe8+ Kb7 64. Bb4) 62. Qa7+ Qc7 63. Qa2 Qd6 64. Be3  Qe6 65. Qa7+ Ke8 66. Bc5 Bd8 67. h3 Qd5 68. Be3 Be7 69. Qb8+ Kf7 70. Qh8 Qe6  71. Bf4 Qf6 72. Qb8 Qe6 73. Qb7 Kg8 74. Qb5 Bf6 {[pgndiagram] And finally a  draw was agreed. A fascinating clash where Karjakin played almost like a  machine. But to be honest, Carlsen's opening choice didn't leave him with many  opportunities to go wrong. At least that's my humble 2175 impression} 1/2-1/2

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