Category Archives: Slav

Topalov adopts Kramnik’s preferred Slav Defence for the last game of the match, but converts it into a Stonewall formation with 13… f5?!. Kramnik goes for a minority attack on the queenside (16. b4 and 19. b5) and infiltrates the … Continue reading →

Topalov’s last game with the White pieces sees him out of a Slav with very little. He refrains from his novelty from game 8 and instead plays a more solid 8. Rb1. Kramnik’s solid play gives him a tiny edge … Continue reading →

Topalov’s opening novelty subdues Kramnik, and he finishes Kramnik off in typical Topalov fashion. Another variation of the Slav Defence sees Topalov taking an unusual sideline – a virtually unplayed 8. a3. He follows this up with a bold and … Continue reading →

Personal note: I publicly acknowledge and commend Vladimir Borisovich Kramnik’s sporting and professional attitude, and strength of character, in playing game 6. I am impressed he stayed in Elista to play this game when many other Grandmasters in his position … Continue reading →

A stormy ferocious struggle where Topalov demonstrates his talent for conjuring up an attack from almost nothing. The game is peppered with queen sacrifices as well as rook and knight sacrifices. Somehow Kramnik defends just enough to delay Topalov’s coup … Continue reading →