The UpGrad Mumba Masters delivered a statement victory in Match 18, overpowering the Ganges Grandmasters with a clinical display of chess excellence. Four decisive wins against just one loss showcased the Masters’ depth and determination as they marched to an impressive 11-6 triumph.
So Strikes First Blood
Wesley So set the tone on Board 2 with a ruthless attacking masterclass against Vincent Keymer. After the German star sacrificed a pawn for activity, So calmly consolidated his extra material before launching a devastating assault on the exposed king. His rooks and bishops coordinated beautifully, and when the attack broke through, Keymer had no defense. The American’s clinical conversion sent a clear message to his teammates: this was their day.
Mamedyarov and Koneru Pile On the Pressure
Shakhriyar Mamedyarov continued the Masters’ dominance on Board 3, grinding down Javokhir Sindarov in a complex strategic battle. After winning material in the middle game, Mamedyarov’s technique was flawless. He advanced his passed pawns with precision, giving his opponent no chances for counterplay. The endgame conversion was textbook chess at its finest.
Koneru Humpy made it three from three for the Masters on Board 4, outplaying Polina Shuvalova in an endgame masterclass. After gaining a material advantage, Humpy demonstrated why she’s one of the world’s elite, promoting a pawn and navigating through multiple technical challenges to secure the full point. Her patience and precision were exemplary throughout the 90-move marathon.
Anand Holds Firm at the Top
The legend Viswanathan Anand provided crucial resistance for the Grandmasters on Board 1, holding Maxime Vachier-Lagrave to a hard-fought draw. In a wild tactical melee, both players created threats, but neither could deliver the knockout blow. Anand’s fighting spirit shone through as he escaped with perpetual check after being under pressure for much of the game. This half-point kept the Grandmasters’ hopes alive.
Grandmasters Fight Back
Stavroula Tsolakidou delivered the Grandmasters’ lone victory on Board 5, defeating Harika Dronavalli in an epic 103-move battle. After slowly building pressure in a complex position, Tsolakidou’s patience paid dividends. She promoted a passed pawn and converted the resulting endgame with impressive technique, providing a glimmer of hope for her team.
Board 6 saw Bardiya Daneshvar and Raunak Sadhwani battle to a draw in a dynamic encounter that swung both ways before peace was agreed.
The Verdict
This was a comprehensive team victory for the Masters, built on the stellar performances of So, Mamedyarov, and Koneru on the top three boards. While Anand’s resilience and Tsolakidou’s determination kept the Grandmasters in the contest, the damage had already been done. The Masters’ 11-6 triumph showcases their title credentials and sends a warning to the rest of the league: they’re hitting their stride at the perfect time.
