Vidit Gujrathi Beats Argentine Prodigy; Pranav, Pranesh Register Wins in Round 3

India’s impressive run at the FIDE World Cup 2025 gained further traction on Thursday, November 6, as Vidit Gujrathi, Pranav V, and Pranesh M led a strong charge into the third round.

The trio joined compatriots Gukesh D, Arjun Erigasi, P Harikrishna, Karthik Venkatraman, and Diptayan Ghosh, ensuring India continues to be one of the best-represented nations in the event. Vidit Gujrathi produced a gritty performance to overcome 12-year-old Argentine sensation Faustino Oro, one of the tournament’s youngest competitors. After the classical games ended in a stalemate, Vidit prevailed in the second rapid encounter, claiming victory with black in 52 moves. “It feels good to qualify for the next round. The match was tough, so winning it makes it even more satisfying,” Vidit said after his win. Complimenting his opponent, he added, “Oro is special — at 12, he’s already playing with maturity and understanding beyond his years.” Vidit will now take on Sam Shankland of the United States, who ousted Vasyl Ivanchuk.

World junior champion Pranav V bounced back strongly after losing his second classical game against Norwegian GM Aryan Tari. He struck back in the first rapid game, winning after 44 moves, and secured progress with a draw in the next. “I tried to stay focused and not think about the earlier games. My preparation paid off,” said Pranav, who next meets Titas Stremavicius of Lithuania, fresh off an upset win over Wesley So.

Pranesh M also impressed, defeating Germany’s Dimitrij Kollars in their second rapid duel. Playing black, he seized control early and wrapped up the win in 48 moves. His next challenge will be Vincent Keymer, another rising German star.

Elsewhere, R Praggnanandhaa survived a tense tie-breaker against Temur Kuybokarov, eventually clinching both blitz games after splitting the rapid encounters. SL Narayanan too advanced after defeating Nikita Vitiugov in a similar blitz decider.

In one of the day’s biggest upsets, tenth seed Hans Niemann was knocked out by Italy’s Lorenzo Lodici, who triumphed in a marathon 77-move rapid battle following two classical draws. With eight Indian grandmasters moving into the third round, including seasoned names and emerging talents alike, India’s presence at the World Cup remains both dominant and deep — a reflection of the country’s growing strength in world chess.