Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and P Harikrishna impressed again at the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 in Panaji, Goa on Thursday. Both won their fourth-round tiebreaks to enter the round of 16.

Arjun defeated Peter Leko of Hungary 3-1 in the first set of tiebreaks. Harikrishna drew his first game against Nils Grandelius of Sweden and won the next to seal a 2.5-1.5 victory.

However, R Praggnanandhaa lost to Daniil Dubov of Russia and crashed out of the tournament.

Praggnanandhaa’s Early Exit

Praggnanandhaa, who reached the final in 2023 before losing to Magnus Carlsen, could not repeat his performance. Dubov, known for his skill in rapid formats, held Pragg to a draw in the first game and won the second.

Pragg ran out of time in a key position. He lost a pawn and later a rook for a minor piece, ending his run in this knockout event.

Arjun’s Confident Play

Arjun played confidently with black pieces. Leko tried risky tactics but overextended. Arjun grabbed a pawn and smoothly converted his lead in the rook and minor piece endgame.

In the next game, Arjun used the Nimzo-Indian Defense to dominate again. Leko’s aggressive play backfired, and Arjun finished the match in style.

He will now face Levon Aronian of the United States, a two-time World Cup champion and one of the most dangerous players in the draw.

Harikrishna’s Calm Approach

Harikrishna showed great control under pressure. For the first time in this event, he entered a tiebreak. He held his nerve in the 15-minute rapid games, outplaying Grandelius in the second match to win the tie.

His composed play once again proved his strength and experience.

Other Results and Surprises

German player Frederic Svane continued his brilliant run. He beat Shant Sargsyan of Armenia 2.5-1.5. Earlier, Svane had shocked world champion D Gukesh. His consistent performance keeps him in the race for a Candidates spot.

In another big upset, Aleksey Grebnev of Russia defeated Maxime Vachier-Lagrave of France 2.5-1.5. The Frenchman’s exit could make the upcoming rounds easier for the remaining Indians.

What Lies Ahead

The $2 million prize money tournament is getting tougher. Arjun and Harikrishna are now India’s only hopes. Both will aim to maintain their form and push for a deep run in the coming rounds.