Peter Svidler was, as ever, self-deprecating at the press conference after his third round win against Teimour Radjabov. He claimed this was the first time his preparation had got him as far as move ten. But perhaps his opponent's predilection for the King's Indian Defence had helped. It's a much-loved and very sharp choice for Black at all levels... except perhaps the very highest. Kasparov used to punt it but, since then, only the boldest have dared to play it at world championship level.
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| Peter Svidler (left) and Teimour Radjabov at their third round press conference. |
Unfortunately, Svidler had seen him coming and he had prepared a very solid set-up designed to stifle any Black counter-attacking chances. Radjabov thrives on active play, so it provoked him to give up a pawn to generate some activity. It didn't seem to help much and he was minded to convert his material disadvantage to one of rook for two minor pieces, but that didn't help either.
Thereafter it was really only a question of how long it would take Svidler to win. In some ways this was the least interesting of the round three games as it was a victory for better opening preparation, and there was nothing particularly exciting to see on the board. It might have been more interesting had Teimour decided to go passive and sweat it out but that is not in his nature. (He may have to learn it if he is to fulfil his ambition of becoming world champion.) But full marks to Peter for having done the best homework and gaining what looked like an effortless victory.
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