Jan-Krzysztof Duda defies Mamedyarov's inspired comeback, clinches Aimchess Rapid 2022

by Shahid Ahmed - 22/10/2022

Poland no.1 Jan-Krzysztof Duda defeated Shakhriyar Mamedyarov in the finals to win Aimchess Rapid 2022. It was certainly not an easy second set. Duda topped the Prelims then eliminated Vidit and Carlsen in the Quarterfinal and Semifinal matches without the need of tie-breaks. Mamedyarov had no plans of going down in two straight sets. He brought 'Shakh attack' and smashed Duda in the first two games. Duda made a prophylactic draw in the third to save energy and play Blitz tie-breaks. He won both Blitz games to win the Final and his second Meltwater Champions Chess Tour event of the season. Photo: Champions Chess Tour

Duda overcomes a speed bump in his dominant run

Shakhriyar Mamedyarov has secured his spot in the final Major event of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour 2022 season. It is slated to take place in San Francisco, California in USA from 14th to 20th November 2022. Magnus Carlsen, Arjun Erigaisi, Jan-Krzysztof Duda, Praggnanandhaa and Liem Quang Le are the remaining participants who have already earned their spots. The last two spots will be Wild Cards.

Winner - Jan-Krzysztof Duda | Photo: Champions Chess Tour

Runner-up - Shakhriyar Mamedyarov | Photo: Champions Chess Tour

Duda - Mamedyarov: 0.5-2.5 (2-0)

Shakhriyar Mamedyarov played in his typical aggressive style. He sacrificed his queen in the very first game.

Duda - Mamedyarov, Game 1

Position after 20...Nc3

20...Nc3 21.Bxc3 bxc3 22.e4 Bxc4!? this is Shakh being himself. 23.Rxd8 Rfxd8 24.bxc4 Rb8 even though computer will stay White has a decisive advantage due to being ahead in material, the reality is a far cry from it. White is certainly not that much better and the position is certainly not easy to play.

Position after 30.Qb4

30.Qb3 Ra/db2 31.Qxb2 Rxb2 32.Rd3 would have kept things in balance and White would steer clear of any potential danger. However, 30.Qb4?? invited trouble. Try to find out how Shakh finished the game.

Mamedyarov once again played some exciting chess to win the second game.

Mamedyarov - Duda, Game 2

Position after 13.Nxe6

To learn how to win in must-win situations, well one can learn from Mamedyarov, provided you like living on the edge. 13.Nxe6! is one of those cases where you take the attack to your opponent instead of waiting for things to happen. Computer will not appreciate this move, only a human can. Thus, defending the position with accurate play became increasingly difficult for Black and White went on to win the game with a smashing attack.

The third game was a quick theoretical draw in the Giuco Piano/Italian opening. Thus, tie-breaks were enforced. Duda won of them comfortably after the latter make tactical errors, to win the Final and the tournament.