FIDE World Cup 2025: Arjun Erigaisi, P Harikrishna Draw Opening Game of Round 5

Add as a preferred source on Google

Panaji, Nov 14: India's campaign at the FIDE World Cup 2025 stayed steady as both GM Arjun Erigaisi and GM P Harikrishna played out draws in the opening game of Round 5 on Friday (November 14).

While Arjun pressed hard against two-time World Cup champion GM Levon Aronian, Harikrishna ensured a smooth half-point with black against GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara.

Arjun, playing with the white pieces, looked poised to take control after gaining a slight edge in a double-rook endgame. The tension grew when Aronian spent nearly 30 minutes pondering his 21st move-an unusual pause for the Armenian-born star, hinting at the depth of his struggle.

However, the seasoned campaigner eventually untangled his position and steered the game toward equilibrium. The duel concluded after 41 moves with the points split evenly.

Earlier, P Harikrishna delivered a composed performance with black pieces against Alcantara, one of the breakout performers of the tournament. The Indian grandmaster neutralized the Peruvian's ambitions early, guiding the game into a balanced rook-and-pawn ending before the players agreed to a draw, also in 41 moves.

This year's World Cup began with 206 players from 82 countries competing for the prestigious Viswanathan Anand Trophy. Among the 24 Indians who entered the competition, only Arjun and Harikrishna remain in contention for the coveted Candidate spots.

Six out of the eight Round 5 matches ended in draws at the time of reporting, setting up a high-stakes second game where both Indian stars will look to push for decisive results.

Indian Results (Round 5, Game 1)

• GM Arjun Erigaisi drew with GM Levon Aronian - 0.5 : 0.5
• GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara drew with GM P Harikrishna - 0.5 : 0.5