World Champion GM Magnus Carlsen won the 2022 Airthings Masters by defeating GM Ian Nepomniachtchi on the second day of their match by the count of 2.5-0.5.

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Airthings Masters | Day 8 Results

With the score tied after the first day of competition, the contest moved on to a “who will flinch first stage.” The cost of a mistake became tremendous.

Nepomniachtchi had White in the first game, but he wasn’t able to get things going in his direction. Carlsen controlled the pace throughout and agreed to a draw only because he felt uncomfortable on the clock.

All in all, this game continued the already established pattern: Carlsen looked like the better player between the two but wasn’t able to light up the scoreboard.

Things would change dramatically in game two.

Just like a few months ago at the big show in Dubai, Nepo totally disintegrated after the first loss

Watching game three live I had an ominous feeling, despite White getting a great attacking position out of the opening. Indeed, Ian folded like a lawn chair in a matter of a few moves.

The Game of the Day distinction is awarded for the significance of the result, not the quality of play.

So, it’s ended, “not with a bang but a whimper.” It is sad to see great talent, such as Nepomniachtchi not being able to hold his nerve.

In conclusion, I’d like to thank you all for reading my reports and providing insightful comments.