In a high-stakes clash at the Norway Chess 2026 in Oslo, Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa delivered a masterclass against reigning world champion D Gukesh to secure his third consecutive classical victory. The win, achieved in just 34 moves with the black pieces, keeps Praggnanandhaa firmly in contention for the tournament title ahead of the final round on Wednesday.
All-Indian Showdown Ends in Pragg’s Favor
The ninth-round encounter between two of India’s brightest chess prodigies was a battle of nerves and preparation. Playing with the black pieces, Praggnanandhaa outmaneuvered Gukesh in a sharp opening, exploiting a critical mistake in the middlegame to force an early resignation. The victory marked Pragg’s third straight classical win at the event, a run that has significantly boosted his chances of clinching the title.
“It was an intense game. Gukesh is a world champion, so every move counts,” Praggnanandhaa said after the match. “I’m happy with how I handled the pressure.”
Norway Chess Title Race Heats Up
The result leaves the tournament wide open as three players enter the final round with a mathematical chance to lift the trophy. Wesley So remains the sole leader, holding a narrow half-point advantage over Praggnanandhaa. Meanwhile, Alireza Firouzja kept his hopes alive by defeating Vincent Keymer in an Armageddon tiebreaker, setting up a climactic showdown with So in the last round.
In the women’s section, Bibisara Assaubayeva secured the title with a round to spare after holding a draw against Anna Muzychuk, capping a dominant performance at the event.
Gukesh’s Struggles Continue
The loss extends Gukesh’s difficult run in Norway Chess 2026, where he has endured multiple setbacks despite his elite status. Analysts pointed to a possible preparation mix-up in the Ragozin Defence as a key factor in his defeat against Firouzja earlier in the tournament. Gukesh’s coach, Grzegorz Gajewski, acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about his protégé’s long-term form.
“It’s just a matter of time before he turns his form around,” Gajewski said. “One issue will always remain in his game, but his talent is undeniable.”
What’s Next?
The final round on June 6, 2026 promises fireworks, with Praggnanandhaa set to face Wesley So in a must-win encounter. A victory for the Indian star would force a tiebreak, while So’s draw or win would likely secure him the title. Meanwhile, Firouzja’s last-round clash with So could determine the runner-up spot.
For chess fans in India, Pragg’s resurgence is a welcome sight, adding to the nation’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in the global chess scene.
“R Praggnanandhaa defeated fellow Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh in the penultimate round of Norway Chess 2026 to complete a hat-trick of Classical victories, keeping his tit…
— kridangan