FIDE World Championship - Ding, Gukesh chill after game 6 draw

My thoughts....

Day 6 Game 6 of the FIDE World Championship

Ding and Gukesh chilling after game 6 ends in draw. 

Day 6 of the World Championship is viewed as a successful day based on previous event outcomes. Ding goes for London system opening with d4,  previously played in the last Championship match against Ian Neponmiachtchi, Russian chess grandmaster in Game 6.

Ding aim to repeat the result with a win in White pieces against Gukesh played the first move and second move d4 and Bf4 which are the book moves from the London system, also a favourite opening of Magnus Carlsen.

Gukesh with his opening knowledge and prep successfully maintained control of the game with quick book moves from both which created open files which allowed Ding to control with the Rooks.  With pawns scattered for Gukesh, they looked for counteract chances with both Queen dominating the chessboard to pick up pawns.  A risky Knight was captured soon after its was activated to neutralise the tension which allowed the major pieces of Rooks and Queen taking control of the board for both along with the pawns.

Ding's strategic use of the Rooks showcased his expertise in controlling the game, while Gukesh strategically positioned the Queen to capitalize on scattered pawns for a tactical advantage.

Ding opted for a three-fold repetition at the early stage, while Gukesh tried to create a winning opportunity with Queen Qh5 to play longer. The chances for both players were slim and not obvious without the help of engines. Ding may have had an advantage with outside passed pawns but the situation was unclear to him.

With no optimal moves for either party, the game once again ended in a draw with 1/2 - 1/2 in Game 6, maintaining a tied score chart with 3 points each.

Ding and Gukesh can chill on the rest day to showcase their skills in Game 7 on Tuesday and as you can see from the picture, both the players appear chilling for now.