Norway, June 3 (HBTV): World Champion D Gukesh secured his first classical victory over fellow Indian Arjun Erigaisi in a dramatic seventh-round match at the Norway Chess tournament on Monday. The win came from a position initially deemed almost hopeless.

This remarkable victory followed Gukesh’s recent triumph over World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, marking his first classical chess win against the Norwegian. These consecutive victories propelled the 17-year-old Indian prodigy above Carlsen in the standings, placing him second behind Fabiano Caruana, who defeated Wei Yi in his match.

The clash between the two Indian talents lived up to expectations. Erigaisi gained an early advantage, steering the opening into a sharp and complex middlegame where he outplayed Gukesh and appeared poised for victory. A critical mistake by Gukesh left him with a material deficit and a compromised position, leading many analysts to consider his situation ‘nearly lost’.

However, Gukesh demonstrated resilience and tactical brilliance. Under mounting pressure, he gradually clawed his way back into the game with precise calculations and calm defence. In a remarkable turnaround, he neutralised Erigaisi’s advantage and seized control.

As time pressure mounted, Erigaisi made just enough errors for Gukesh to capitalise on an opportunity, which he exploited flawlessly. After intense play, Erigaisi resigned.

(Inputs from News18)