Fischer-Spassky 1992 (Game 16)

October 7, 1992

Belgrade, Yugoslavia

After one loss and three draws since moving the match to Belgrade, Fischer picks up his first win in the Yugoslav capital.  Spassky tried a relatively outdated opening in the Accelerated Averbakh Attack (6.Bg5) and was punished for it in a rather dominant game by Fischer. 

The opening gambit was one rarely seen in this particular era of chess play.  Additionally, the sacrificed pawn was quickly returned by Fischer with the intention of increasing the quickness of his own offensive.  The endgame produced a queen, two rooks, and a bishop for Fischer.  He expertly mobilized these pieces for an offensive on his opponent’s king.  Spassky’s pieces had been forced into retreat and he was completely on the defensive.

Fischer’s 32…e5! proved to be fatal, as Spassky could not capture with 33.fxe5 due to the possibility of 33…Qxf3!, which would lose a piece.  His answer of 33.dxe6 (e.p.) resulted in the continuation of 33…Bc6, 34.Kf1 Bxf3.  Spassky immediately resigned after Fischer’s 34th move.  This game reflected the brilliant attacking style and mentality of Fischer over the years, and gave additional hope for future matches by the legendary figure.  Fischer now leads the match by a score of 6-3.

For an account of the earlier games, visit www.rookhouse.com/blog and type in "fischer spassky 1992" in the search bar located on the right side.