In game 1 of their matchup, Nodirbek Abdusattorov opted for the unconventional Jobava London system, showcasing his affinity for modern and innovative openings. India’s top female player, Humpy Koneru, approached the game with caution but expended a significant amount of time in the early stages. Nodirbek strategically positioned his rooks along the c-file, securing both a positional advantage and a pawn. Humpy’s formidable defensive skills posed a considerable challenge for the young Uzbek Grandmaster, who diligently sought to capitalize on his advantage.
Despite operating with less than 20 seconds on her clock for the majority of the game, Humpy displayed exceptional resilience in a challenging rook endgame. The position, though losing, remained complex, and she came perilously close to salvaging a draw. However, Nodirbek Abdusattorov managed to secure the victory, capturing the crucial point in a thrilling encounter.
In Game 2, Humpy Koneru embarked on a quest to overturn the match’s outcome, opting for the Tarrasch Variation. Despite her determination, the battle against the clock proved to be her most formidable adversary as she inadvertently fell into an exchange attack. Consequently, her position deteriorated, leading to her defeat in Game 2 and, ultimately, the loss in her match against Nodirbek Abdusattorov. However, the journey continues, with Humpy set to face Wesley So in the losers’ bracket tomorrow.
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