When it was time to be brave again, he retreated: Carlsen on Gukesh
The Norwegian defeated Gukesh in their first meeting since the latter became World Chess Champion.
The Norwegian defeated Gukesh in their first meeting since the latter became World Chess Champion.
The Norwegian defeated Gukesh in their first meeting since the latter became World Chess Champion.
Magnus Carlsen said D Gukesh was not brave enough when it mattered the most as he defeated the Indian star in their ninth round Rapid tie of Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour at Weissenhaus in Germany on Saturday.
"The position was just equal. It was a lack of experience on his part because he took too many chances. He was really brave, but when it was time to be brave again, he retreated. By the time he retreated, it was very difficult to hold his position," Carlsen told commentator David Howell.
Take Take Take featured Carlsen's response after he beat Gukesh in their first meeting since the 18-year-old Indian became the youngest World Champion in December.
Carlsen edged Gukesh in a rook-knight endgame, which seemed equal until the Norwegian made calculated King advances to support a passed pawn. Carlsen felt the game would have finished in a draw had Gukesh not tried too much.
"His pieces were so well placed that he should never really get in trouble.... he could have exchanged rooks at some point, which is then just a dead draw. He was trying to do a little too much," Carlsen said.
"There was not a single point in the game where he could realistically play for a win.. that hasn't stopped him from playing for a win in the past (smile)," Carlsen added. That last remark compliments Gukesh's perseverance, which served him well in the World Championship match against Ding Liren. Gukesh famously pulled off a stunning win in the decisive Game 14 against Ding when the Chinese blundered. Gukesh was credited for his tenacity to squeeze out a win even from a position that was considered a draw.