Game of the Week 15/52
Welcome to this week’s Game of the Week from the FIDE Candidates Tournament! This is a strategic battle in a Classical Italian, where Black gradually outmaneuvered White in a slow positional struggle. After a relatively calm opening, the game shifted into a long maneuvering phase, where small structural decisions and piece coordination became increasingly important. Caruana tried to maintain activity, but Giri slowly took control of key squares and expanded on the queenside with a clear strategic plan. The game eventually transformed into a heavy positional squeeze, where Black’s space advantage and better piece placement proved decisive in the long run.If you’re here to sharpen your skills and really work on your chess, try solving the next 5 positions before diving into the analysis. But if you’re just here for fun and want to enjoy the game, feel free to scroll straight to the full breakdown. Have fun!
WHITE TO MOVE. Decide between (A) closing the position with d5, taking into account Black’s bishop pair, or (B) maintaining central tension with Be3.
BLACK TO MOVE. Find the best continuation for Black.
WHITE TO MOVE. Choose between (A) rerouting the knight via h4 to f5, or (B) bringing it to c2, where it would put pressure on the weak b4 pawn.
BLACK TO MOVE. Choose between (A) attacking the knight with Qa5, or (B) closing the position with c5, and evaluate the consequences of both moves.
BLACK TO MOVE. Find a final blow for Black.
The game was played in round 9 of FIDE Candidates 2026, 8. 4. 2026
between GM Caruana (2795) and GM Giri (2753)
Thanks so much for following along! I hope you enjoyed the game and the key lessons it offers. If you have an idea for Game of the Week feel free to send me a message on Lichess. I’d love to hear your suggestions!
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