The International Chess Federation World Championship Match in Astana
is set for a winner-takes-all 14th game, after a draw between Russian
player Ian Nepomniachtchi and China's Ding Liren.
Drama continues to unfold at the World Championship match in Astana. Following four decisive games, Ding Liren played enterprisingly with the white pieces and gained a decisive advantage. Amid a tactical middlegame, Ian Nepomniachtchi was resourceful in defence, as he also garnered a big lead on the clock. Nepo managed to escape with a draw and continues to have a 1-point lead on the scoreboard. | Photo: FIDE / Stev Bonhage
Amid the riveting World Championship match in Astana, Jon Speelman looks back on the 1963 match for the world title between Mikhail Botvinnik and Tigran Petrosian. “The reason I’m returning to it is not just nostalgia, but because of the parallels between how the World Championship debutants Tigran Petrosian and Ding Liren performed at the start. Both were rather terrified”. | Photo: TASS Agency (1963)