FIDE Chess cup pre-quarters - Arjun and Harikrishna draw their games

In the first game of the fifth round of the FIDE World Cup 2025, Indian grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and Pentala Harikrishna held their opponents to solid draws. Arjun Erigaisi, as in previous rounds, attempted to gain the upper hand against Levon Aronian of the United States. However, both players displayed careful play, and neither committed any significant mistakes, resulting in an evenly balanced game.

Pentala Harikrishna also drew his game against Mexico’s top-ranked player, continuing his steady performance in the tournament. Several other encounters in the round ended in similar fashion, with neither side managing a decisive advantage.

A notable moment came in the game between former World Rapid Champion Daniil Dubov and Sam Shankland of the USA. Dubov had a promising opportunity in the endgame, but a lack of precise calculation allowed Shankland to escape with a draw.

The sole victory of the day was recorded by Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov, who defeated Frederik Svane of Germany.

Round 5 Game 2 is scheduled to begin tomorrow at 3 p.m. IST, as players look to gain momentum in the knockout stage of the prestigious championship.