Photo Credit – Eteri Kublashvili / FIDE
Panaji, November 14: GM Arjun Erigaisi’s determined attempts to push for victory against GM Levon Aronian did not yield a breakthrough, while GM P Harikrishna opted for a safe and steady draw against GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara as Round 5 of the FIDE World Cup 2025 began in Panaji on Friday.
Playing with the white pieces, Arjun entered a complex double rook endgame where he held a slight edge. However, Aronian defended resourcefully, surviving a long think on his 21st move and steering the game back to equality. After 41 moves, the players agreed to a draw, leaving the second classical game on Saturday as the decider—this time with Aronian enjoying the white pieces.
Harikrishna, meanwhile, ensured a smooth day at the office. Facing giant-killer Alcantara, who has impressed in the tournament so far, the Indian GM maintained precise play with black. Both players quickly traded into a rook–pawn endgame and settled for a draw after 41 moves.
The FIDE World Cup 2025 began with 206 players from 82 countries, including a strong contingent of 24 Indian participants. After four gruelling rounds, only Arjun and Harikrishna remain in the chase for the prestigious Viswanathan Anand Trophy and the coveted Candidates spots.
At the time of reporting, six of the eight Round 5 matches had ended in draws, setting up an intense second classical game.
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
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