Chess Olympiad: India’s Men Outclass Germany, Women Overcome Uzbekistan

Reigning world champion D Gukesh produced a stunning comeback as India’s men edged Germany 2.5-1.5, while the women’s team recorded a comfortable 3-1 win over Uzbekistan in the ninth round of the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.

Gukesh was under pressure for most of his game against Alexander Donchenkov and appeared close to defeat. But the Indian star turned the game around with a powerful finish, eventually building a mating net around the German’s king.

The comeback proved crucial as India secured the team victory and moved to 15 points with two rounds remaining. The result keeps the Indian men in the fight for a podium place.

Hosts Uzbekistan strengthened their position in the open section after defeating top-seeded United States. Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Nodirbek Yakubboev scored victories over Fabiano Caruana and Hans Moke Niemann, while Javokhir Sindarov’s loss to Wesley So did not prevent Uzbekistan from taking the match.

In the women’s section, China maintained their lead with a 3-1 victory over Armenia. The Chinese team now have 17 points, two clear of India, setting up a potentially crucial clash between the two sides in the penultimate round.

India will need a strong performance against China to remain in the title race. Zhu Jiner has been a key player for the Chinese side, while Koneru Humpy will be looking to find her best form at a critical stage of the competition.

Gukesh’s victory was especially important after he had been on the brink of defeat. His ability to fight back could provide further confidence ahead of his world championship match later this year.

The remaining three games in the men’s match were drawn. R Praggnanandhaa shared the point with Vincent Keymer, Arjun Erigaisi drew with Matthias Bluebaum, and Nihal Sarin finished level with Fredrik Svane.

India’s women faced less resistance from Uzbekistan. Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agrawal won their games, while Humpy and Savitha Shri drew, giving India a 3-1 victory.