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World Champion Gukesh Ousted in Goa as 21-Year-Old Frederik Svane Moves On

The upset reshapes a key World Cup bracket that funnels three players into next year's Candidates Tournament.

Overview

  • Svane eliminated Gukesh 1.5–0.5 by winning the second classical game with Black in 55 moves, converting a knight-and-pawn endgame.
  • The 19-year-old titleholder exits early on home soil after a mixed season since claiming the world crown in December 2024.
  • Germany’s strong run continued as Alexander Donchenko upset Anish Giri and Matthias Blübaum advanced, setting up a round-four meeting between them.
  • Four German grandmasters reached the last 32 at the Goa World Cup, reflecting a standout showing for the contingent.
  • Round-three tiebreaks are slated for Sunday, round four starts November 11, and the event runs through November 26 with the top three qualifying for the Candidates.