Tie-breaks will decide the winner of FIDE World Cup 2025, Esipenko third
The second Final game between Wei Yi (CHN) and Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) ended in a draw at FIDE World Cup 2025. It lasted only 24.5 minutes and 30 moves. Spectators of the sport might be disappointed for such an outcome in the Classical game of the Final. However, the nonexistence of a rest day before the Finals, resulted in players taking a quick day at the office. Both Wei and Sindarov have remained undefeated in the Classical battles in this event. Both of them have had fantastic tie-breaks. One thing is for sure, the event will have an exciting finish. Andrey Esipenko won the second game against Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB) to make a fantastic comeback after his one-move blunder against Wei in the Semifinls. Esipenko finished third and also earned his place in the FIDE Candidates 2026. Tie-break games start tomorrow at 3 p.m. IST. Photos: Shahid Ahmed
Esipenko in the Candidates
For a long time, Andrey Esipenko has been touted as the prodigy to take the reins as the next to rise to the elite level after Ian Nepomniachtchi, when it comes to Russian chess. This third place finish at the FIDE World Cup 2025 and a qualification to the FIDE Candidates 2026, seems to be solidify that prophecy.
Wei - Sindarov: 1-1
GM Javokhir Sindarov (UZB, 2721) opted to repeat Four Knights' Game which he played against GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara (MEX) in the Quarterfinals and made a quick draw. This time also things were wrapped up quickly in 30 moves and the game lasted a mere 24.5 minutes.
Yakubboev - Esipenko: 0.5-1.5
GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB, 2689) went all out against GM Andrey Esipenko (2681) as he was in a must-win situation.
White's ambitious play did not work out. After 14...Bb7 Black has virtually completed the development of his pieces at the cost of one center pawn, while White only has temporary control of the center and the queen is slightly at an awkward place. Black won the game in a dozen more moves. Thus, Esipenko finished third and qualified to the Candidates.
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