The second game of the World Chess Championship 2024 between Indian GM D Gukesh and Chinese GM Ding Liren was an intense, tactical affair that ended in a draw on Tuesday in Singapore. The draw marked a shift in the momentum of the summit clash, as Gukesh notched his first half-point in the ongoing 14-game series.
Liren Retains the Lead
Liren, the reigning world champion, maintains a narrow edge with an overall score of 1.5 points after two games, having secured a victory in the first game on Monday. Gukesh’s draw with black pieces on the second day not only broke his opening-day loss but also injected resilience into his campaign.
An Intense but Balanced Game
In contrast to Game 1, where Gukesh resigned following Liren’s superior play, the second game saw a more balanced dynamic. Liren opened confidently with white, putting Gukesh under time pressure early on. By the seventh move, Gukesh had fallen behind by nearly 50 minutes on the clock but navigated the challenging position calmly to regain parity.
The game lasted 23 moves, with Liren pressing early in the middle game. However, Gukesh countered with precise formations, successfully neutralizing the subtle threats posed by the Chinese champion.
Strategic Maneuvers and Post-Game Discussion
Liren’s composed gameplay included multiple breaks to his private lounge, reflecting a more relaxed demeanor after his opening-day victory. On the other hand, Gukesh maintained focus despite initial setbacks. Post-game, the players engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the potential moves and the intricacies that could have unfolded had the game continued.
Looking Ahead
With Liren’s advantage in the series and Gukesh settling into the championship’s rhythm, the stage is set for more thrilling encounters in the upcoming games. The third game promises to showcase more high-stakes chess as Gukesh will aim to level the series while Liren strives to consolidate his lead.
Stay tuned as the World Chess Championship continues to captivate fans with tactical brilliance and nail-biting battles!