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The FIDE World Cup 2025 witnessed a day of intense rapid chess battles on Thursday, with Indian Grandmasters showcasing their prowess. Leading the charge, Vidit Gujrathi secured a crucial victory, advancing to the third round.
He was joined by fellow young Indian talents, Pranav V and Pranesh M, who also delivered impressive performances to move forward in the prestigious tournament.
Vidit Gujrathi Conquers 12-Year-Old Prodigy Faustino Oro
Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi clinched a hard-fought win against Argentina’s 12-year-old sensation, Faustino Oro, securing his place in Round 3 of the FIDE World Cup 2025.
After being held to draws in two classical games, Vidit demonstrated his deep experience and composure. Playing with the black pieces, the 31-year-old defeated Oro in 52 moves during their second rapid game.
Vidit Reflects on a Tough Match
Reflecting on the tense two-day battle, Vidit admitted the contest was anything but easy.
“It feels good to qualify for the next round. It was not an easy match, so it feels good all the more,” he shared after his victory.
Praise for the “Special” Argentine Prodigy
Vidit also lauded the young Argentine, calling him “special” among the new generation of computer-trained players.
“The way young players play chess is very different because they have grown up with computers and have much more experience than the previous generation,” Vidit explained.
“He is special because at 12, he plays like a seasoned player.” Vidit will now face USA’s Sam Shankland in the next round, who defeated veteran Vasyl Ivanchuk.
Other Indian Grandmasters Advance with Stellar Performances
Pranav V’s Resilient Comeback
World Junior Champion Pranav V showcased remarkable resilience. He bounced back from a classical game defeat to triumph over Norway’s Aryan Tari.
Pranav secured a win in the first rapid game and held his opponent to a draw in the second, ensuring his progression.
“I just tried to play my game and not think about the earlier rounds. My preparations worked out,” Pranav stated. His next challenge will be against Titas Stremavicius of Lithuania.
Pranesh M Outplays Kollars
Pranesh M also secured his spot in the next round with a dominant display. He outplayed Germany’s Dimitrij Kollars with the black pieces in 48 moves.
Pranesh is now set to face Vincent Keymer in what promises to be another exciting encounter.
Notable Upsets and Upcoming Matches
The FIDE World Cup 2025 also saw its share of surprises. In a significant upset, 10th seed Hans Niemann was knocked out.
Italy’s Lorenzo Lodici emerged victorious against Niemann in a marathon 77-move encounter, showcasing the unpredictable nature of rapid chess.
FIDE World Cup 2025: Indian Round 2 Tiebreak Results
- GM Vidit Gujrathi bt IM Faustino Oro (ARG) (2.5:1.5 aggregate)
- GM Pranav V bt GM Aryan Tari (NOR) (2.5:1.5 aggregate)
- GM Raunak Sadhwani lost GM Robert Hovhannisyan (ARM) (1:3 aggregate)
- GM Pranesh M bt GM Dimitrij Kollars (GER) (3:1 aggregate)
- GM Nihal Sarin lost to GM Stamatis Kourkoulos-Arditis (GRE) (1.5:2.5 aggregate)
Conclusion: A Promising Start for India
The FIDE World Cup 2025 has already delivered thrilling moments, particularly for Indian chess fans. The advances of Grandmasters Vidit Gujrathi, Pranav V, and Pranesh M highlight the growing strength and depth of Indian chess talent on the global stage.
As these stars prepare for their next battles, the excitement continues to build, promising more gripping encounters in the rounds to come.
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