Sprinting to the end – Round 10 previews

Artwork by the talented Mike Magnan

Topalov – Morozevich

This is a very interesting matchup! Topalov has been having a heck of a tournament. Morozevich is extremely hot, winning the last three consecutive games to pull into a tie for third with Anand. Will both players be happy with their current standings and coast through this round? I think not. I am not sure if they will go insane trying to win but I expect some fight

This game is a toss up.

Leko – Svidler

This is another interesting matchup. Leko just came off a tragic loss. He played very well against Morozevich but blundered in time pressure. He certainly cannot be happy with a -1 score. First place is basically out of reach. However, the battle for second place is still in play. I expect Leko to go all out to get back to the .500 mark and cut into Svidler’s second place position.

I give a small edge to Leko.

Kasimdzhanov – J. Polgar

Another incredible matchup. There was some bad blood between these two after their first game. Kasim will want his revenge. Judit will want to make her point as well. I expect this to be an all out battle.

This game is a toss up.

Adams – Anand

I cannot figure this game out. It seemed that Anand gave up hope for first place by forcing a quick draw against Topalov with the White pieces. How motivated will he be with the Black pieces in this round? Adams came off a not overly exciting draw against Judit. I am just not sure if either will be too enthusiastic to fight in this round. I sure do hope they will try though but I cannot expect much.

I expect a draw in this game after some minor fireworks.