FIDE World Cup 2025: Three Quarterfinals Head to Tiebreaks as Yakubboev Reaches Semifinals

Game 2 of the FIDE World Cup 2025 quarterfinals brought intense calculation, tight positions, and players walking into the hall just minutes before the clocks started. At ChessBrainz, we follow these games closely because they demonstrate decision-making under pressure exactly the skill every young player must build. With one semifinal spot confirmed and three matches headed to tiebreaks, the stage is set for a dramatic fight.

WHY Game 2 Increased the Pressure

With everything still open after the first day, the second classical game determined who stayed in control and who would be forced into high-stress rapid and blitz. For Alexander Donchenko, it was a must-win situation. For Arjun, Sindarov, Martínez, Shankland, and Esipenko, the target was simple: hold, stay composed, and reach the faster formats with confidence. All four games delivered fighting play without tipping over the edge.

WHAT Happened Across the Boards

The ceremonial first move was played on the Arjun–Wei Yi board. With the White pieces, Arjun came prepared for a more ambitious fight in the Queen’s Gambit Declined. Wei Yi responded accurately, steering the game out of theory. The tension spiked when Wei accepted an isolated queen’s pawn structure. Arjun found the strong idea Qe2, but in the critical moment missed the winning tactic Bxd5. After Qd2, the moment slipped, and the game equalised quickly.

Sindarov and Martínez produced the fastest game of the day a known drawing line in the Four Knights Spanish, played with full accuracy. For Martínez, conserving energy made practical sense, especially given his tiebreak strength.

Shankland and Esipenko left theory early in the Italian Opening. Esipenko had space, Shankland had solidity, and neither side allowed weaknesses. A balanced structure and accurate play led to a logical draw.

The only game with realistic imbalance was Donchenko vs Yakubboev. Donchenko pushed in the Exchange Variation, gained time, and built an imbalanced structure exactly what he needed. But complications fizzled out after a few inaccuracies. Yakubboev defended calmly, equalised fully, and secured his place as the first semifinalist of the World Cup.

HOW These Results Set Up the Tiebreaks

Three matches now head into rapid and blitz formats where instinct matters as much as preparation. Sindarov’s slow-paced style contrasts Martínez’s blitz strength. Arjun and Wei Yi are evenly matched, with both missing chances across the two games. Shankland and Esipenko have been stable throughout, making their tiebreak one of the toughest to predict.

Yakubboev, meanwhile, earns a rest day and strong momentum heading into the semifinals.

Summary

Game 2 delivered accuracy, tension, and missed chances the perfect setup for a high-stakes tiebreak day. With three semifinal spots still open, tomorrow promises real Battle Day chess.
If you’d like your child to learn the same discipline and clarity seen in these games, you can book a free demo class with ChessBrainz.

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