Author: Gu Xiaobing
The 8th round of both tournaments came to an end today. The male’s games changed the peaceful style of previous days and witnessed competitive combats with three winners. The early-finished game was between Leko Peter (white) and Topalov Veselin who usually shows his power in the second half round. Surprisingly, Topalov Veselin proved his strength as the leading player and beat Leko Peter today, which was his second victory in the second cycle. Jakovenko Dmitry from Russia who was at the bottom before finally defeated Radjabov Teimour from Azerbaijan in the Sicilian Defense, which was his first victory. Radjabov Teimour today fell into a time panic. In an endgame expected to be a draw, he had to take 10 steps within one minute, directly leading to his fatal mistake. Today’s highlight was between Carlsen Magnus who was far ahead of other players and Chinese player Wang Yue. Wang Yue prepared a successful opening and took the initiative for a time. But in the later confrontation, both sides made some mistakes and were forced by the pressure of time. In the end, Carlsen Magnus gained a Pawn in turn. In the endgame, Wang Yue exchanged a Bishop for two Pawns, and pursued a draw tenaciously. However, at the crucial moment, Carlsen Magnus made a tactical attack on Wang Yue and won the game. So far, the champion is locked on Carlsen in advance. Men’s games make crucial breakthroughs.
In women’s games, Dzagnidze Nana who ranked first previously drew with Mkrtchian Lilit quickly. Sebag Marie beat Zhu Chen, heading the top the first time. Xu Yuhua defeated Yildiz Betul easily who failed in all previous rounds. Ju Wenjun(black) defeated Shen Yang. Zhao Xue(white) drew with Kavanova Baira. Munguntuul Batkhuyag(black) defeated Fierro Martha L. The women champion is still a mystery.
Tomorrow, men’s games will have a day off. Women’s games will welcome its ninth competition. Tomorrow morning, the noticeable North-South University Chess Match will raise the curtain in Nanjing Information Engineering University.
