Magnus Carlsen caught the leaders at the TePe Sigeman Chess Tournament after beating Nils Grandelius in round two. He played the Benoni, a sharp opening that demands precision from both sides. Carlsen navigated the complications better and converted a superior position into a clean victory.
"That was a fun game, for sure," Carlsen said afterward. The comment reveals something about his approach. He still finds joy in fighting chess, even at the highest level. The Benoni isn't the most fashionable weapon at the moment, which makes his willingness to employ it interesting. He trusts his understanding over the latest engine lines.
Elsewhere in round two, Nodirbek Abdusattorov squandered his chances badly. He reached a winning position not once but three times against his opponent. Each time he failed to convert. These are the kinds of games that define tournaments at this level. One player executes under pressure. The other doesn't.
The tournament structure means Carlsen needs to maintain momentum. He's in the mix now but hasn't separated himself. The leaders will tighten up their play in the coming rounds. Carlsen will need to do the same.