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Who Will Challenge Carlsen?

Who Will Challenge Carlsen?

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So far, the Candidates Tournament has been full of fight and excitement. Over the course of 11 rounds, there have been 8 lead changes. 

As we enter the home-stretch, let’s take a look at the current front-runners to challenge Carlsen.

THE LEADERS

Photo courtesy of World Chess


Fabiano Caruana

Current Score: 6.5 / 11
Performance Rating: 2841

 

With a victory over co-leader Anand, Caruana has sprung himself into a tie for 1st. Because of this head-to-head win, he now has stronger tiebreaks over Anand. 

With only three rounds to go (including two games with White), will he be able to maintain his lead to the finish line?


Vishy Anand

Current Score: 6.5 / 11
Performance Rating: 2843

Vishy Anand has been the most inconsistent player of the tournament. He's lost two critical games to his closest competitors: Caruana and Karjakin. Yet, he's managed to win double the games of any other player. While most other players in the tournament have aimed to avoid losses, Anand has thrived on decisive results. Every time he suffers a tough loss, he comes back and proves he's still a force to be reckoned with. Could we be in store for a third Carlsen-Anand match? 

THE CHASER

Photo courtesy of World Chess


Sergey Karjakin

Current Score: 6 / 11
Performance Rating: 2810

Sergey Karjakin, initially considered an underdog, has beaten the odds so far. Although he just suffered a tough defeat at the hands of Anand, Karjakin was one of the leaders for a majority of the event. Since joining the leaders in the 4th round, Karjakin has played it very safe, accepting many draws. 

Now, just a half point short of the leaders, will he recover from his loss today and play energetically for the full point?

He'll have his chance in the last round when he has White against Caruana. 

 


Round 12 Match-Ups

 

 

 

Who are you rooting for?


Don’t want to miss a moment of this world-class event?

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