Abdusattorov, Erigaisi and Madaminov share the lead on 2 out of 3
Round three of the UzChess Cup in Tashkent was considerably quieter than the first two rounds, with four of the five games ending in draws at around the 40-move mark. The only decisive result came in the all-Uzbek encounter between Shamsiddin Vokhidov and Mukhiddin Madaminov.
Madaminov entered the round as the sole leader after scoring wins over Ian Nepomniachtchi and Nikolas Theodorou. Facing Vokhidov with the black pieces, he reached a materially balanced queen endgame with five pawns per side, though he had the more promising chances thanks to his superior pawn structure.
In this volume, we dive into core aspects of chess technique. Smyslov taught the principle of tactical hierarchy, “checks, double attacks, and unprotected pieces”, and Mikhalchishin demonstrates how this method of calculation is vital.
After mastering positional play in Volume 1 and learning how to convert small advantages in Volume 2 of the Master Your Technique series, GM Mikhalchishin now presents Essential Techniques, covering topics from playing on the flank versus the center to maintaining tactical vigilance. In this volume, we dive into core aspects of chess technique. Smyslov taught the principle of tactical hierarchy, “checks, double attacks, and unprotected pieces”, and Mikhalchishin demonstrates how this method of calculation is vital. He shows how top players apply it, but also how even grandmasters sometimes miss critical resources, highlighting the necessity of developing a strong “tactical sense.” This approach encompasses tactical vigilance and scanning for sacrifices, but is also highly relevant to the second part of the course, which focuses on more strategic elements such as the use of heavy pieces and endgame technique.
Free Video Sample: Simple Tactics
Free Video Sample: Mating Net: Ne7+ Qxh7 Rh5+
Vokhidov gradually made progress by manoeuvring his queen and keeping pressure on his opponent. Queen endgames often allow the inferior side to create drawing chances through potential perpetual checks, but they also contain recurring geometrical motifs that can quickly turn small mistakes into decisive concessions.
After a couple of inaccuracies by Madaminov, Vokhidov first won a pawn and then converted his advantage into a 68-move victory. The result ended Madaminov's perfect start and brought Vokhidov back into contention after his missed stalemate chance against Hans Niemann in Monday's second round.
With the top two seeds, Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Arjun Erigaisi, holding draws with the black pieces on Tuesday, Madaminov remained among the leaders despite the defeat. After three rounds, Madaminov, Abdusattorov and Erigaisi share first place on 2/3.
Vokhidov 1-0 Madaminov
Round 3 results
Standings after round 3
All games
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