Reigning chess world champion Magnus Carlsen admitted on Friday that he “didn’t have full control” when he once again had to face off against challenger Vishy Anand at the current world championships in Sochi. The match ended in another draw (remis).
Norwegian commentators fussed that the match looked headed for a loss “and total crisis” for Carlsen, but he got himself out of trouble after two hours and could heave a sigh of relief.
Now both Carlsen and Anand are even at 2.5 points each after five matches. The next one is scheduled for Saturday.
Carlsen seemed to be in better humour on Friday and once again, he and arch rival Anand spent several minutes discussing the match when it was all over. Carlsen said he thought he played better on Friday and he also took time to meet with Norwegian journalists who’ve been covering the championship tournament closely in Sochi.
Carlsen said his play wasn’t “fantastic, but the match situation is OK.” Anand is proving to be a more aggressive rival than he was at last year’s chess championships in his home country of India. He’s been well-prepared and has impressed commentators. Carlsen defended himself well on Friday, though, as championship action was set to extend into next week.
newsinenglish.no staff
