Local representatives doing well in Tashkent
Round four of the UzChess Cup produced two decisive games on Wednesday in Tashkent, leaving three players tied for first place on 2½/4. Top seeds Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Arjun Erigaisi both drew their games and remained in the leading group, where they were joined by Shamsiddin Vokhidov.
Vokhidov has recovered well from his second-round loss to Hans Niemann, scoring back-to-back wins in rounds three and four. After defeating former sole leader Mukhiddin Madaminov on Tuesday, he beat Nikolas Theodorou in a double-edged game arising from an Exchange Variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined.
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+
The other winner of the day was Nodirbek Yakubboev, who defeated Madaminov with the black pieces. The result brought Yakubboev back to a fifty-percent score, while Madaminov suffered a second consecutive defeat after having started the tournament with wins over Ian Nepomniachtchi and Theodorou.
Yakubboev and Madaminov now stand on 2/4, half a point behind the three leaders. The standings remain favourable for the local representatives, with Vokhidov sharing first place and Madaminov still close to the top despite his recent losses. Both Vokhidov and Madaminov are performing above expectations given their ratings.
Theodorou 0-1 Vokhidov
Round 4 results
Standings after round 4
All games
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