Chess World Cup 2025: Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi Advance on a Day of Stunning Upsets

The chess World Cup 2025 proved once again why it is one of the toughest events in the sport. With just two games per round before tiebreakers, even the smallest mistake can mean elimination – regardless of whether you’re a 2600 or 2800 ELO-rated grandmaster. Wednesday’s action in Panaji, Goa witnessed both dominant displays and dramatic exits, marking a day of major upsets in the chess world.

Mixed Fortunes for the Indian Contingent

For India, the day brought a mix of triumph and tension. Arjun Erigaisi, Pentala Harikrishna, and Gukesh D produced outstanding performances to move into the next round, while Vidit Gujrathi, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Nihal Sarin were forced into tiebreakers to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Arjun Erigaisi’s form was the highlight for Indian fans. The 21-year-old demolished Martin Petrov 2–0, displaying confidence and precision reminiscent of his peak 2024 form when he neared the 2800 ELO mark. After a relatively subdued 2025 season – including modest showings at Tata Steel Chess and the Grand Swiss – this victory reignites his momentum. Having narrowly missed out on a FIDE Candidates spot in the 2023 Baku edition, Erigaisi knows this World Cup could be his final chance in the current cycle.

Gukesh’s Winning Streak Continues Despite Exhausting Schedule

Gukesh D overcame Kazybek Nogerbek to secure his place in the third round, proving that fatigue is no obstacle for the tireless young champion. Despite traveling nearly 22,000 kilometers recently – from Rhodes to St. Louis to Goa – Gukesh continues to perform like a machine. Although, as reigning World Chess Champion, he isn’t required to compete in this event, his participation highlights his hunger to stay sharp and test himself against the world’s best.

As Koneru Humpy told India Today, “Players like Gukesh enter such tournaments not just to win, but to constantly challenge themselves and improve.” His victory in the second round is a testament to that philosophy – a refreshing sign that his confidence and form remain intact despite his packed schedule.

Pressure Mounts for Vidit, Praggnanandhaa, and Nihal

Praggnanandhaa, who reached the 2023 World Cup final, appears relaxed thanks to his near-guaranteed FIDE Circuit qualification for the Candidates. Yet, early elimination could dent his confidence, so he’ll look to finish strong in the tiebreaks. Vidit Gujrathi faces a tricky challenge against 13-year-old Faustino Oro – often dubbed the “Messi of chess” – while Nihal Sarin must stay composed under mounting pressure.

But perhaps the most remarkable performance came from Pentala Harikrishna, who stunned the audience by sacrificing his queen as early as move eight against Arseny Nesterov – a rare and daring tactical masterpiece that led to a sensational victory.

Shocking Exits: Nepomniachtchi and Wesley So Crash Out

The biggest shock of the day came courtesy of Ghosh Diptayan. The 27-year-old Indian grandmaster from Kolkata pulled off the upset of the tournament by defeating Ian Nepomniachtchi – the 2022 World Championship finalist and two-time Candidates winner. Diptayan’s masterful endgame sealed the victory, sending Nepomniachtchi crashing out of the tournament in his very first match.

Adding to the chaos, Wesley So, ranked World No. 3 and fresh off his Sinquefield Cup triumph, was also eliminated in stunning fashion. The early exits of both Nepomniachtchi and So have reshaped the competition’s landscape, offering breathing room for other contenders while underscoring the brutal unpredictability of knockout chess.

Unpredictability Defines the Chess World Cup

As the tournament heats up, the message is clear – no one is safe. In a format where two games decide fate, one blunder can end even a top player’s campaign. The Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa is only entering its third round, but it has already delivered drama, brilliance, and heartbreak in equal measure. For India’s stars like Gukesh and Erigaisi, the journey continues; for others, survival in the tiebreaks will define their next chapter.