CM

07

Gm 3

Carlsen

- Aronian

I have to return this match again, and likely more times ahead, because this is the match-up that pits two players who could go all the way to the world championship itself if they were not paired at this early stage. Carlsen evens the score with this fine rook and pawn ending. Aronian's pawn majority on the queenside did not get enough time to bear fruit as Carlsen pressed him on the kingside. Aronian had just played 38... Kh8-Kg8, and Carlsen marched on with 39. h7+ Kh8 40. g5! Help is on the way 40... fg 41. f6 and the Black king was overwhelmed. 1-0