the russian Ian Nepomniachtchi maintains his lead (5-4) after drawing a draw with the Chinese Ding Liren in the ninth game, almost six hours long, the longest of those played so far for the world title in Astana.
After a tough battle in the eighth round, both players seemed to slow down in the ninth round despite spending almost six hours in front of the board looking for a win that came to none.
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tough opponent
Nepomniachtchi, playing White, attacked on the kingside and sacrificed a pawn in his offensive initiative. Subsequently, Black began to be in danger, Ding defended solidly and counterattacked on the queenside, forcing White to reassess his winning chances.
As the game progressed Nepomniachtchi made some inaccurate moves, leading to a nearly even position.
The two then proceeded to simplify the position by exchanging heavy pieces, White regained his pawn and the two reached an even moment. In the end, Black gave up a pawn to consolidate a drawn Rook and Knight ending.
Although they reached a draw on move 50, Nepomniachtchi decided to test his opponent for another 32 moves. After an exchange of rooks on move 52, the Russian was a pawn up and was pressing in an equal knight ending.
I dunno if you guys watch Chess, but Ding Liren match with Ian Nepomniachtchi is a must watch.
These two spent thousands of hours studying and mastering the game. Inspiring. pic.twitter.com/BTdugxTg2m
— Web3 Wizard (✨,✨) (@Web3Wizard_) April 21, 2023
Ding’s defense was very difficult but he managed to hold on. The tenth game is scheduled for Sunday, April 23.
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EFE
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