Topalov dismantles Ponomariov’s game in creative style. Other games drawn.
Topalov – Ponomariov
Yet another ant-Marshall Ruy Lopez and Topalov’s bishop development right through Black’s centre is a prelude to a kingside attack. Topalov sacrifices an exchange – which becomes an entire rook – to keep his threats alive. This snare’s Ponomariov’s queen, which he has to sacrifice for a bishop. Topalov finishes the game masterfully using his major pieces and passed pawn.
Svidler – Bacrot
An anti-Marshall Ruy sees both players pushing hard on the queenside. The game finishes with a repetition of position in a difficult position for both sides.
Kamsky – Anand
Kamsky surprises Anand with an Exchange Ruy Lopez, but Anand quickly obtains a comfortable position. As pieces are whittled off a balanced rook endgame sees a draw by repetition.