Norway Chess 2026: Firouzja Dominates, Deshmukh Triumphs in Armageddon

Round 2 Highlights

In the second round of Norway Chess 2026, Alireza Firouzja achieved a decisive 3-0 victory over India's R Praggnanandhaa. Meanwhile, the match between Wesley So and D Gukesh concluded in a draw, with So claiming victory in the Armageddon tie-breaker. Additionally, in a thrilling all-Indian women's match, Divya Deshmukh triumphed over Koneru Humpy in Armageddon.

Men's Tournament Results

Alireza Firouzja demonstrated strategic prowess, gradually applying pressure during the middlegame against R Praggnanandhaa. His precise moves led to his second consecutive classical win in the tournament.

The encounter between Wesley So and World Champion D Gukesh ended in a hard-fought draw after an intense strategic battle. So later secured the win in the Armageddon tie-break, earning additional points.

Magnus Carlsen faced Vincent Keymer in another draw, where Carlsen held a slight edge in the endgame. However, Keymer's solid defense allowed him to save the game, but Carlsen ultimately won the Armageddon tie-break for extra points.

Women's Tournament Results

In a notable all-Indian clash, Divya Deshmukh emerged victorious over Koneru Humpy in Armageddon after their classical game ended in a draw.

In another match, Anna Muzychuk defeated reigning Women's World Champion Ju Wenjun in Armageddon, securing extra points.

Tournament Standings After Round 2

After the second round, Firouzja solidified his lead in the standings with back-to-back classical wins, accumulating six points. Gukesh follows in second place with 2.5 points from two draws and an Armageddon win. In the women's rankings, Assaubayeva leads with 4.5 points, including one win and an Armageddon victory.

Round 1 Recap

In the first round, Firouzja defeated Carlsen, while Gukesh secured an Armageddon win against Vincent Keymer. Praggnanandhaa also clinched an Armageddon victory over Wesley So. In the women's event, Assaubayeva emerged victorious against Koneru Humpy, and Divya Deshmukh triumphed over Ju Wenjun in Armageddon.