Rapport, Duda, MVL, and Van Foreest in the semifinals of the Europe & Africa Armageddon Series
After five days of intense battles, GMs Richard Rapport, Jan-Krzysztof Duda, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, and Jorden Van Foreest moved to the semifinals of the Europe & Africa World Chess Armageddon Series.
Day 5 of the Europe & Africa Armageddon Series began with Maxime Vachier-Lagrave facing off with the white pieces against Alexander Donchenko. Donchenko handled the middle game very accurately and soon obtained an excellent position, but the ever-resourceful MVL managed to find a saving resource and draw the game.
The second game might have started quietly, but became massively complicated in the during the time-trouble phase. Donchenko lost his way and allowed Vachier-Lagrave to win the bishop and the game.
The second match of the day saw Vincent Keymer play against Jorden Van Foreest in a very highly anticipated game.
It was absolute chaos on the board. Jorden played a brilliant first game, getting his preparation in, and then playing some crisp attacking tactics to take the victory. In the second game. It looked like Vincent was going to bring home the bacon after a cute tactics he actually placed twice(!), but Jorden was so resilient and held on to get a perpetual check. He clinched a draw thanks to which he is through to the next round.
Tonight at 19:00 CET, the semifinals begin with Jorden Van Foreest facing Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, and Jan-Krzysztof Duda taking his chances against Richard Rapport.
Meanwhile, if you’re in Berlin come and visit us at the World Chess Club in Under den Linden. During the event you can find the players snacking or playing blitz, but everyday is good for amazing cocktails, delicious food, cozy coaches, and a high aesthetics space for chess!
