Prague Chess Festival 2025: Giri’s Positional Masterclass Over Praggnanandhaa

Opening: King’s Indian Defense – Classical Approach

Praggnanandhaa chose the ever-aggressive **King’s Indian Defense**, allowing White to grab space early in the center while preparing a counterstrike on the kingside.

• 10. Kh1 – A solid prophylactic move, preventing potential tactics on the h-file.
• 14. Bg1 h5 – Praggnanandhaa starts an early kingside expansion.
• 18. Rfd1! – A well-timed centralizing move by Giri, ensuring control over the d-file.

Middlegame: Giri Neutralizes Praggnanandhaa’s Attack

Giri played **precise positional chess**, restricting Praggnanandhaa’s dynamic ideas and transitioning into a favorable position.

• 22. Qc2! – A critical move, hitting Black’s kingside while keeping control over central squares.
• 25. Bxd5! – Giri simplifies, creating a stronger pawn structure and active pieces.

Endgame: Giri Converts with Precision

With a superior position, Giri capitalized on Black’s weaknesses, finishing the game with flawless technique.

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For another **brilliant tactical battle**, check out **Aravindh Chithambaram’s masterpiece against Anish Giri** at **Prague Chess Festival 2025**: Aravindh Chithambaram vs. Anish Giri – Prague Chess Festival 2025 .