The FIDE World Cup 2025 round 5 has been delivering edge-of-the-seat action, with some of the world’s finest chess players battling it out to advance. In the crucial stage, India’s top Grandmasters, Pentala Harikrishna and Arjun Erigaisi, showcased their resilience and skill by securing important draws, keeping their hopes alive in the tournament. Here’s how these two chess stars performed in Round 5.
Pentala Harikrishna In The FIDE World Cup 2025 Round 5
Starting with Pentala Harikrishna, the seasoned Indian Grandmaster faced a tough opponent in Jose Martinez Alcantara. The FIDE World Cup 2025 round 5 game was intense, featuring intricate strategic moves and tough exchanges. Despite facing a pawn disadvantage at one point, Harikrishna held his ground well. His experience was evident in how he managed the middle and endgame phases, steadily neutralising threats. The draw Harikrishna secured was a testament to his solid defensive skills and strategic thinking under pressure.
Arjun Erigaisi FIDE World Cup 2025 Round 5
Arjun Erigaisi, the young and dynamic talent, had an equally challenging FIDE World Cup 2025 round 5 game. He took on none other than the renowned Levon Aronian, a player who is well-known for his tactical genius and deep understanding of the game. Erigaisi’s performance showed maturity beyond his years as he navigated the complexities of the match. Holding Aronian to a draw demonstrates Erigaisi’s growing stature on the world chess stage and his ability to compete with the elite.
Both draws were crucial because they set the stage for the remaining games in the matchups. In knockout tournaments like the FIDE World Cup, every half-point matters. Drawing against such strong opponents means the Indians still maintain a chance to push for a win in the subsequent games of the round.
The draws in FIDE World Cup 2025 round 5 by Harikrishna and Erigaisi were not just defensive successes but strategic achievements that keep their dreams alive in this prestigious tournament. As the battles get tougher, these Indian champions will look to build on their solid foundations to make a deeper run in the FIDE World Cup 2025.
Also read: R Praggnanandhaa Out Of The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025
