A solid approach from from Erigaisi, who opts for a solid pawn structure in exchange for MVL getting a space advantage out of the opening.
The players blitz out the opening at blazing speed, as they're both familiar with this line. While MVL has pressure along the open file on the queenside, Erigaisi is looking to use his bishop pair to generate counterplay at a later stage.
Erigaisi applies immense pressure on MVL's knight, which is pinned to his queen, threatening to win a piece.
Erigaisi's plan has forced MVL to pacify his setup in order to not lose material, and it seems like Erigaisi is running away with the initiative!
Has MVL misremembered this opening variation? Erigaisi has managed to solidify his position while maintaining an extra pawn as well as the bishop pair.
There's no attack in sight for MVL, who is now at a clear disadvantage.
MVL's position is quickly falling apart, and Erigaisi now has a winning advantage! Erigaisi's pawn is pushing down the board, becoming a massive threat while still being up material.
An absolute disaster of a first game for MVL, who clearly misremembered something in the opening. After playing for the wrong plan, Erigaisi had absolutely no issue converting his advantage into victory.
MVL is now in a must-win situation with the black pieces to keep the match alive!
Let the battle of generations commence!
While Erigaisi was on the verge of getting into an armageddon decider against Sarin in his last match, the young Indian superstar managed to use the time control to his advantage. His reward is the ever-dangerous MVL, one of the few players who have proved themselves as a true contender against Magnus Carlsen in the faster time formats.
This will be a close one, and there's no telling who will come out on top! While MVL has proved himself time and time again in the faster formats, Erigaisi has already proven his skill without increment.