In the third-place play-off, GM Nodirbek Yakubboev opted for the Sicilian defence and had to dig himself out of a hole in the middle game.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Wei Yi holds Sindarov with black in first game of final; Esipenko beats Yakubboev

The second game between Nordirbek and Sindarov went the same way as the first as both the players were happy to play solid and safe chess till the mandatory 30 move threshold before agreeing for a draw.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Both semifinals advance to tiebreak after another day of draws

A notable highlight was Arjun Erigaisi's exceptional speed of play—he finished the game with more time on his clock than he started with, reflecting both confidence and preparation.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Arjun Erigaisi draws quarterfinal Game 1; Nodirbek Yakubboev scores sole win

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FIDE World Cup 2025: Wei Yi holds Sindarov with black in first game of final; Esipenko beats Yakubboev

FIDE WC 2025: Both semifinals advance to tiebreak after another day of draws

FIDE World Cup 2025: Arjun Erigaisi draws QF Game 1; Yakubboev scores sole win