Rest day in Wijk aan Zee

Today an article by a new editor, who had a look at the developments in the Corus B and C groups for us.

After four rounds of great chess in Wijk aan Zee the fourteen grandmasters now deserve a day off. So far we have seen some tremendous matches and obviously we look forward to some more excitement. Especially Radjabov, who is currently leading group A, has made quite an impression. It is really fabulous the way the 19-year-old Azerbaijani plays the Kings-Indian and how he leaves his opponents with empty hands. It may me a bit premature, however some visitors of Chessvibes might consider an adjustment to their predictions of this year’s favourite.

Also this year we see so many strong players at Corus, so all the attention goes out to group A. Very understandable of course, but let us take a look at the other two groups. In group B it seems that Dutchman Jan Smeets is determined to make up for his results in last year’s edition, in which he disappointedly finished twelfth. The 21-year-old youngster has nearly achieved his last year’s total score already and is at this time the proud leader of group B. His first round match against the Armenian Sargissian was one of great beauty after an exchange sacrifice for the bishop pair. Especially his move 23…g5! showed some great skills. I can absolutely recommend this match to any chess player.

In Group C the talented IM Nepomniachtchi has taken the number one position. I am sure that many of us find some difficulties to pronounce his name, nevertheless try to remember it. Playing with Black in the opening round the only 16-year-old Russian beat top-seeded Krasenkow and has a score of 3,5 out of 4 games. After this big disappointment the Polish Grandmaster has recovered himself and is only one point behind. Particularly his third round match against Wouter Spoelman was spectacular. Holland’s youngest IM, only 16, seems to have problems playing Black against the Grandmasters. Already in the first round he had to face a fine tactical combination, which was executed by Indian’s Negi. However in this strong competition the Dutchman is doing well with a score of 1,5. With still nine games on the role I expect we will hear some more from him!

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