Indian chess sensations Vantika Agrawal and Divya Deshmukh shine brightly in the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup, a USD 691,250 knockout tournament now in its third round. Their victories in the opening games of round three position them just one step away from the pre-quarterfinals, boosting India’s presence among the final 32 players.
Vantika Agrawal Outsmarts Russia’s Kateryna Lagno
Vantika Agrawal stunned higher-rated Kateryna Lagno, competing under the FIDE flag, in a thrilling match. The game opened with a Grunfeld defense, evolving into a balanced pawn structure. Lagno’s critical error on move 20 handed Vantika an extra piece. “I saw the chance to complicate things and took it,” expressed Vantika. Her precise play secured the win, and a draw in the next game as black will advance her further. This victory marks Vantika as a rising star in the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup.
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Divya Deshmukh Masters Endgame Against Injac
Divya Deshmukh, wielding black pieces, defeated Serbia’s Teodora Injac in a queen pawn opening. Injac’s endgame missteps allowed Divya to seize control. “I capitalized on her calculation errors,” Divya shared, as reported by The Indian Express. Her win strengthens her standing among India’s five remaining players. Divya’s performance signals her readiness to compete at the highest levels in the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup.
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India’s Other Contenders Hold Strong
Koneru Humpy, India’s top-rated player, drew with Poland’s Kulon Klaudia while playing white. Harika Dronavalli matched Greece’s Tsolakidou Stavroula, and R Vaishali split points with Carissa Yip of the USA. These draws keep India’s hopes alive, with all three players eyeing wins in their next games. The FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup captivates chess fans with intense battles and emerging talents. India’s Vantika Agrawal and Divya Deshmukh lead the charge, showcasing strategic brilliance.
