Chennai, Dec 10 (Representative) After yesterday’s loss, reigning World Champion DingLiren stormed back into contention, defeating Indian Challenger D Gukesh inthe 12th game of the FIDE World Chess Championship at Singapore onMonday evening. With this win, Liren emulated his last year’s 12th game comeback win againstIan Nepomniachtchi. The match lasted 39 moves.Both the players are tied 6-6 with two rounds remaining in the 14-game ClassicalChess contest. With today’s win, Liren has boosted his chances of retaining the World Crown.But the contest is tantalisingly poised and both of them could fancy their chancesfor the title.The 12 rounds so far have witnessed two wins each for Gukesh–who breachedthe Chinese wall yesterday for his 2nd win and led for the first time, started withagood opening today, but ended up on the losing side–and Liren and eight draws.
Even though he was initially taken aback by Gukesh’s opening approach, Dingmanaged to find his way and create a chess masterpiece, perhaps one of thebest games of his career. After the game, Ding Liren said “Yesterday was a difficult game to deal with, butI tried to continue with my normal routine and be refreshed for this important game.” “Today I had a cup of coffee before the game, which helped me feel much moreenergetic, and also, I had some snacks to maintain my energy levels for the criticalmoment. I think I played a very good game and found some good moves”, he added. Despite suffering a major blow, Gukesh took the loss in his stride. “Although I didn’tremember all the details, I was aware of the opening position. I thought I was quitecomfortable after the opening, but later on, I wasn’t sure what to do” he said afterthe game”. “Obviously it’s not pleasant to lose this game, but at least the score is tied–two moregames are remaining, so let’s see” he said. The players will enjoy their final rest tomorrow and the match will resume on Wednesdaywhen Gukesh will play with White pieces.