Hans Niemann, the controversial US 21-year-old, is in London this week as his “Niemann v the World” series against European grandmasters continues with a match against the England No 1 and former Russian, Nikita Vitiugov.
Niemann won their first classical game on Wednesday morning in 48 moves, playing an impressive Anatoly Karpov style strategic attack. But in game two, after creating a winning position, he missed two easy tactical shots and had to settle for a drawn rook ending. Games three and four on Thursday were also drawn after level play, while Vitiugov’s solid and correct play continued to frustrate his opponent with two further draws on Friday. The final outcome of their six classical games, one win for Niemann and five draws, is in line with their respective ratings and is a clear success for Vitiugov after his poor start.
