WCC 2021 Game 1: Surprises and stereotypes

To put it simply, World Championship is a different kind of fever. The match, unlike other top tournaments is somehow very interesting from move 1. It is probably because everyone realizes its the culmination of months and months of practice to counter just that one person. Lot of speculations about openings, how the match would head, what kind of results will we witness are made and it builds to the tension. There is always just enough spice in a WCC game to keep you engaged.

Three years later, the ultimate, marquee event is back. With one very familiar face and one "debutant". It's safe to agree that Magnus is a favourite. But you never know. In chess, in any sport you never know.

Game 1 saw a very interesting start. Some opening surprises, impressively deep preparation from both the players, just what you'd expect. Magnus slowly seeming to outplay his opponent but Nepo handling his nerves under pressure just fine in his 1st game at a World Championship match. On expected lines, it ended in a draw. But it was a fascinating struggle- have a look.

Annotations by @vinniethepooh