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There has been no shortage of drama in the World Chess Championship match in Singapore. While the last five games have ended in draws, game 8 brought yet another layer of excitement as both Ding Liren and Gukesh D missed clear chances to secure a second victory. With Ding winning game 1 and Gukesh bouncing back in game 3, the score remains tied as the 14-game confrontation passes its midway point. The relentless tension is pushing both players and their teams to fine-tune their off-the-board strategic preparations as the stakes continue to rise.
In Wednesday's game, Ding tried 1.c4, the English Opening, marking his fourth different opening move with white. This diversity has been a defining feature of the match, in contrast to confrontations where players stick to probing specific systems. Despite Ding's variety, it was Gukesh who introduced a novelty, crafted by his well-prepared team. The Indian prodigy later acknowledged his support staff, particularly Grzegorz Gajewski, saying:
[My team] has been doing a great job. Not only 'Gaju', but other team members as well.
Ding faced a tough challenge early on as Gukesh's preparation left him out of his comfort zone. However, the reigning champion countered with a bold f2-f4 push on move 13, seeking dynamic play in the centre. By move 20, Gukesh had a clear edge both on the board and the clock, holding a time advantage of nearly 30 minutes.
A critical moment arose on move 22 when Ding's imprecise 22.Rb1 allowed Gukesh to play the powerful 22...b5. This move created connected passers on the queenside, putting the reigning champion under serious pressure.
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Nevertheless, Ding showcased remarkable precision in time trouble, particularly with the manoeuvre Qc1-e1-f2, sacrificing a pawn on a2 to activate his pieces and fight for counterplay.
Ding not only neutralised Gukesh's advantage but also gained the upper hand. However, the Chinese champion admitted after the game:
Today during the game I didn't realise I was winning at some point.
Lacking awareness of his chances, he consolidated his position rather than pushing for a win, which allowed Gukesh to force a triple repetition. However, the Indian challenger, much like in game 6, chose to play on in a slightly worse position, though he later acknowledged misjudging the situation.
The thrilling encounter finally ended in a 51-move draw after both players navigated the tense endgame with precision. With Gukesh set to play with the white pieces in Thursday's game 9, the last one before Friday's rest day, fans eagerly anticipate whether the tie will finally be broken in the fiercely contested championship.
Both contenders were in good spirits at the press conference: reigning champion Ding Liren | Photo: FIDE / Eng Chin An
Both contenders were in good spirits at the press conference: challenger Gukesh D | Photo: FIDE / Eng Chin An
Analysis by André Schulz
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Ding Liren | Photo: FIDE / Eng Chin An
Gukesh D | Photo: FIDE / Eng Chin An
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