Image courtesy: X(Chessbase India)
After a day of rest and reflection, the tension-filled World Chess Championship resumed on Friday, only for Game 4 to end in a lackluster draw after 42 moves. With the series now tied at 2-2, the defending champion Ding Liren and the young Indian challenger Gukesh played cautiously, prioritizing solidity over risks.
A Tactical Start with Zukertort Opening
Ding Liren, commanding the white pieces, surprised Gukesh with the Zukertort Opening. The unusual choice, aimed at unsettling the Indian prodigy, set the tone for the game. Gukesh, however, remained composed, and by the 11th move, he was already 13 minutes ahead on the clock, signaling his confidence and preparedness.
The pace slowed significantly after the 13th move when Liren spent nearly 15 minutes deliberating, leaving himself just over an hour for the rest of the game. Despite this, the Chinese grandmaster launched a phase of relentless attack, attempting to lure Gukesh into uncharted territory beyond his preparation.
Gukesh’s Calm Defense
True to his calm demeanor, Gukesh neutralized Liren’s initiative with precise and calculated play. Offering his bishop to simplify the position, Gukesh steered the game toward a balanced state. With both bishops and rooks exchanged, Liren’s hopes for a decisive edge began to wane.
The game transitioned into an endgame devoid of winning chances. Both players exchanged queens, and a repetition of moves brought the contest to a peaceful conclusion. After 42 moves, they shook hands, splitting the point for the day.
Post-Match Reflections
After the game, Ding Liren expressed satisfaction with his recovery from the disappointment of his Game 3 defeat. “I had a rest day to recover from the tough defeat in game 3. So I came here in a good mood,” he said. Reflecting on his strategy, he added, “I tried to surprise my opponent in the opening. It worked well. Not so bad. But the advantage was very small. He neutralized my initiative.”
Gukesh, on the other hand, appeared unfazed by Liren’s opening surprise. “It was not a completely new line. I had seen it somewhere, but it was a bit of a surprise when I saw it on the board. At some point, I felt that he had some slight edge, but I felt I had neutralized it,” he noted.
Looking Ahead: Game 5
With the series now level, all eyes turn to Game 5, scheduled for Saturday. Both players have demonstrated resilience and tactical acumen, setting the stage for another intense battle. Gukesh will look to build on his strong defense, while Liren will likely seek to regain the lead with more aggressive play.
The World Chess Championship remains finely poised, with every move critical in determining who will seize the upper hand in this closely contested duel.
