Topalov v Kamsky: Previous Encounters

Unless you've been living in a cave for the last few months, you will know by now that on Tuesday an 8-game match will take place between the Bulgarian Veselin Topalov and the American Gata Kamsky (pictured) for the right to challenge the World Champion Vishy Anand.

As chance would have it, the two gladiators have already met a total of exactly 8 times before, with Topalov winning 4 games, Kamsky none, and four draws.  So despite his protestations, Topalov is a firm favourite.  With an Elo rating of 2796, Topalov is currently the top ranked player in the world.  Kamsky is rated 2725, which ranks him at no.17 and he will need to be on top form to pull off a victory against the odds.

Their previous eight encounters are given below.  The opening ceremony is on Monday and the first game is on Tuesday.  The official website is here.  Good luck to both players!