2nd UzChess Cup R3: Abdusattorov outwits Rapport, emerges early sole leader

Nodirbek Abdusattorov (UZB) defeated Richard Rapport (HUN) to emerge early sole leader at 2nd UzChess Cup Masters 2025. Abdusattorov was confident going into the relatively balanced bishop vs knight endgame. The Hungarian's blunder allowed the former World Rapid champion to walk away with victory. R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi and Aravindh Chithambaram drew their respective battles against Nodirbek Yakubboev (UZB), Ian Nepomniachtchi and Parham Maghsoodloo (IRI). Javokhir Sindarov (UZB) forced a draw via repetition as his opponent, Shamsiddin Vokhidov (UZB) left without a choice to keep his queen on the board. Round 4 starts tomorrow at 3 p.m. local time, 3:30 p.m. IST. Photos: Shahid Ahmed