Prague Masters 2025: R Praggnanandhaa Opens Account with Convincing Victory Over Nguyen Thai Dai Van in Round 3

Prague Masters 2025: Tournament favourite R Praggnanandhaa secured his first win at the Prague Masters, defeating Czech Republic's Nguyen Thai Dai Van in the third round on Friday, February 28.

Playing with the black pieces, the Indian grandmaster employed the Nimzo-Indian Defence to register a smooth victory, bringing his total to 1.5 points after three rounds.

Prague Masters 2025 R Praggnanandhaa Opens Account with Convincing Victory Over Nguyen Thai Dai Van in Round 3

After drawing his first two games, Praggnanandhaa needed a breakthrough, and he delivered it in style. "Yesterday was nothing; in the first round, I had a good position," he reflected on his initial performances.

His opponent, Dai Van, found himself under pressure despite having an extra pawn in the middle game, as Praggnanandhaa outmanoeuvred him with superior piece play. The key moment came on move 14, where the Indian grandmaster gained a decisive edge, ensuring a straightforward finish.

Elsewhere in the third round, Aravindh Chithambaram continued his strong run with a win over Germany’s Vincent Keymer, while Turkey’s Gurel Ediz held Praggnanandhaa to a draw in the second round. The tournament, a 10-player round-robin, has seen tight competition, with only a few decisive results so far.

Chithambaram’s victory against Keymer was particularly impressive. Playing with the black pieces, he showcased an aggressive approach reminiscent of Russian great Boris Spassky, who passed away on the same day. The Indian grandmaster played the Queen’s Gambit Accepted, breaking stereotypes by allowing White a strong centre. However, he countered dynamically, gradually increasing pressure until Keymer succumbed to a lost rook-and-pawn endgame after 45 moves.

Praggnanandhaa, known for his versatility in openings, had previously played the French Defence against Ediz. The 16-year-old Turkish prodigy proved a tough opponent, forcing a well-fought draw after 46 moves. Despite the balanced nature of the position, both players pushed for an advantage before eventually settling for a half-point.

In the challengers' section, India's Divya Deshmukh made headlines with a well-crafted win against Czech player Richard Stalmach. Her endgame play stood out, with two connected passed pawns marching forward under the guidance of an active king. The game, lasting 50 moves, was a testament to her improving strength on the international circuit.

With seven rounds remaining in the Prague Masters, Sam Shankland and Aravindh Chithambaram share the lead with 2.5 points, followed by a tightly packed field, including Praggnanandhaa, Nguyen Thai Dai Van, and Anish Giri. As the tournament progresses, Praggnanandhaa will aim to build on his first win and challenge for the top spot.