Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa Set for Epic Tata Steel Chess 2025 Final Round Showdown
Indian Chess Prodigies Battle for Tata Steel Chess Title
The Tata Steel Chess 2025 tournament has reached a thrilling climax, with Indian chess sensations Gukesh D and Praggnanandhaa R emerging as the top contenders for the title. After an intense Round 12, both players are now tied at 8.5 points each, setting up an electrifying final round.
With jaw-dropping sacrifices, unexpected blunders, and high-stakes drama, Round 12 kept chess fans on the edge of their seats. Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi also played a crucial role, delivering a much-needed victory that reshaped the leaderboard.
Gukesh’s High-Pressure Draw Against Jorden van Foreest
Gukesh, who was leading the tournament before Round 12, faced a tough challenge against Jorden van Foreest. Playing with Black, he rejected a draw by repetition, looking to seize the full point. The game turned into a dramatic battle as Gukesh sacrificed his rook on move 39 (39… Rxe5) with only three seconds left on the clock—one of the most stunning moves of the tournament.
However, after achieving a winning position, Gukesh made some inaccuracies, allowing van Foreest to claw back and force a draw. With this result, Gukesh’s sole lead was erased, and Praggnanandhaa caught up with him at 8.5 points.
Arjun Erigaisi’s Stunning Comeback Helps Indian Contenders
Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi, who had been struggling throughout the tournament, produced a spectacular win over Nodirbek Abdusattorov in Round 12. His victory not only boosted his confidence but also helped fellow Indians Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa by keeping Abdusattorov out of the title race.
The turning point of the game came when Abdusattorov blundered on move 24 (24… Qg5??), allowing Erigaisi to put immense pressure with 25. g4. Despite minor wobbles, Erigaisi maintained his advantage and forced resignation in 46 moves.
Praggnanandhaa’s Brilliant Queen Sacrifice Secures Victory
Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa R continued his winning streak by defeating Alexey Sarana in a masterclass performance. The game shifted in Pragg’s favor when Sarana blundered on move 21 (21… Nb5??). From that point, Praggnanandhaa took complete control.
The highlight of the match came on move 29, when Pragg sacrificed his queen (29. Qb7+), forcing an immediate resignation from Sarana. This victory, his third consecutive win, pushed him to 8.5 points, tying with Gukesh at the top.
Final Round: Who Will Win Tata Steel Chess 2025?
The final round of Tata Steel Chess 2025 will decide the champion. The matchups set the stage for an epic finish:
✅ Gukesh vs Arjun Erigaisi – Can Erigaisi, fresh from his confidence-boosting win, spoil Gukesh’s title hopes?
✅ Praggnanandhaa vs Vincent Keymer – Will Pragg outmaneuver Keymer, who is also Gukesh’s second for the World Championship?
With both Indian stars fighting for the crown, will we see a clear champion, or will tiebreaks decide the winner?
As Tata Steel Chess 2025 heads into its final round, Indian chess fans eagerly await history in the making. Will Gukesh D or Praggnanandhaa R lift the prestigious title? The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown!