Ding Liren Stages Epic Comeback in World Chess Championship

Defending Champion Levels Score With Gutsy Game 12 Win

In a high-stakes showdown that had chess fans clutching their pawns, the Chinese mainland's Ding Liren defeated India's Gukesh Dommaraju in Singapore today, tying their FIDE World Championship match at 6-6. The dramatic win came after Ding trailed 6-5 following Sunday's loss – a situation one analyst called 'chess Armageddon' given only three games remained.

Pressure Cooker Moves

Ding opened with the English strategy (his second time using this gambit), leading to a tense mid-game showdown. The turning point came when Gukesh targeted Ding's d3-pawn, only to be countered by the champion's brilliant 18.d4 move – a play that sparked celebrations in China's chess communities.

Snack-Fueled Strategy

'Coffee and snacks saved the day,' Ding joked post-match, revealing his secret weapons against fatigue. The 31-year-old leveraged his bishop pair and central pawns to dominate the endgame, leaving commentators calling it 'a masterclass in crisis management.'

Young Challenger's Grace

Gukesh, 18, remained philosophical: 'Bad games happen – 6-6 feels fair overall.' The matchup continues through Friday, with both players now eyeing the $2.5 million prize and chess immortality.

Reference(s):

Ding Liren defeats Gukesh to tie battle at FIDE World Championship

cgtn.com