As it happened: Nakamura beats Anand in Zurich Chess Challenge

CLICK HERE for live updates if you are accessing this page on your phone First round report: Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand began his campaign in the Zurich Chess Challenge as he went down to Armenian Levon Aronian in the first round in Zurich. [caption id=“attachment_1368801” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Anand takes on Nakamura today. AFP[/caption] It turned out to be a bad day in office for Anand who lost his way in the middle game and his counter play bid did not materialize. The loss may prove quite costly as every win here is worth two points for the overall standings. After tying for third and finishing fifth, Anand got a black to start the proceedings and Aronian came up with the English opening as an initial surprise. After the opening Anand was close to equal but Aronian ensured a consistent pressure on the queen side that increased after an error. The Indian decided to part with a piece for three pawns but it was Aronian’s day as he masterminded the ensuing endgame in copy book fashion. The technical issues remained and Anand fought on till the end but the Armenian gave nothing away and won in 73 moves. (PTI)