No one disagrees that two equally (extremely) strong players, engines, or a combination of the two, will draw almost all of the time--only an error should lead to a decisive result. However, except for a computer playing vs another with the exact same program, wins do occur, and more often with white than black. This seems to indicate that white enjoys some advantage, though whether it is enough to force victory is unproven.
A century ago, the strongest chess entity of the time (Capablanca) said chess was "played out"--everything was known to the top players and the game would die. Since then others, notably Fischer, opined that Capablanca had been mistaken but now (their day) it was true. Some here say that this time we CAN be sure.
The key is the ability to infallibly analyze positions. I have yet to be convinced that we possess it. It may be that we have reached a point where we can be sure we understand it all, but I think (and hope) that the continued exploration of chess and accumulation of knowledge will lead to greater understanding than we now possess. In so many areas of human thought long-standing "certainties" have been overthrown by the gradual accumulation of evidence, the inspiration of great genius, or an accidental discovery.
Of course, there is every possibility that a final proof will be found confirming present opinion (in which I concur) that chess is inherently drawn, but no matter how well-supported, it remains opinion--a mutable commodity.
Optimissed Regarding your post #9361 and the diagrammed position #9359--Here is why the position solution is a brilliant move.
1. The real solution was found 2 moves earlier as I had to set up the move by playing Ra6 and Nc6 to even get to the diagram position.
2. After I played the correct move [after the diagrammed position]---my opponent a strong master immediately resigned!
3. He resigned because I showed him my move was an absolutely forced win against any defense