India Shines in FIDE World Cup 2025
India’s journey at the FIDE World Cup 2025 gained new energy on Thursday, November 6, as several players advanced to the third round. Grandmasters Vidit Gujrathi, Pranav V, and Pranesh M, among others, secured their spots with impressive performances.
Vidit faced tough competition against 12-year-old Argentine star Faustino Oro. Despite the challenges in the classical game, Vidit demonstrated his experience, winning the second rapid match in 52 moves. Reflecting on the match, Vidit said, “It feels good to qualify for the next round. It was a hard match, which makes it even more rewarding.” He also praised Oro, noting how young players today have a unique style due to their familiarity with computers and the game. Vidit’s next challenge will be against Sam Shankland from the US, who previously defeated the renowned Vasyl Ivanchuk.
Pranav, the world junior champion, bounced back after a loss in the second classical game. He secured a victory in the first rapid match, finishing it in 44 moves, and managed a draw in the subsequent game to move forward. “I focused on playing my game today and tried not to dwell on the earlier matches,” Pranav shared. He will next compete against Lithuania’s Titas Stremavicius, who recently triumphed over Wesley So.
Pranesh, playing with the black pieces, took command of his second rapid match against Germany’s Dimitrij Kollars by the 24th move. He maintained his advantage and won in 48 moves. Pranesh’s upcoming challenge will be against German GM Vincent Keymer.
R Praggnanandhaa continued to impress with his ability to handle pressure. He moved on after a tense tie-break against Temur Kuybokarov, winning after drawing the first two rapid games. After a setback in the third game, Praggnanandhaa bounced back with a win in the fourth and clinched victory in both blitz games.
SL Narayanan also made it to the third round, winning both of his blitz games against Nikita Vitiugov after a series of draws. However, tenth seed Hans Niemann from the USA was eliminated early on, losing to Lorenzo Lodici of Italy in a long 77-move match after two draws in the classical rounds.
The excitement continues as these talented players aim for glory in the tournament.
