10Samadov has gotten the greater piece of the center, while Grischuk has clear pressure against Samadov's structure with a very powerful bishop.
A dynamic start to the game!
Grischuk has clear compensation for the lack of space in the center with his fianchetto'ed bishops, and is looking to putting pressure on Samadov's position.
Grischuk gains control over the light squares in the middle fo the board, blocking Samadov's pawns for now.
If Samadov manages to regroup to gain control over the light squares in the center, he will end up with a significant advantage.
For now, though, Grischuk maintains control over the position.
Grischuk reroutes his knight, and all play now revolves around the light squares. Grischuk has managed to maintain control over the most important square in the position, and is close to equalizing.
22If Samadov fails to get his pawn break in the center, he will be left with a difficult situation.
40Samadov gets his pawn break in, causing a massive trade of pieces in the middle of the board.
The endgame still has some dynamics, with Grischuk having stronger pawns, but a weaker minor piece. Can Grischuk press for an advantage?
55Samadov goes wrong in the final phase, as Grischuk's pawn is just too strong!
A very interesting clash between Samadov and Grischuk ultimately ended in Grischuk's favor after Samadov faltered in the final phase of the game. The two went neck-and-neck in the middlegame, but Samadov had trouble taking advantage of his control over the center due to the lack of control over the light squares.
Samadov still seemed to have the game under control after going into an ending with equal material. One wrong strategic decision let Grischuk make progress with his majority of pawns on the queenside, eventually creating a situation where his pawn could not be stopped.
Despite the Rookies winning on board number 2, they end up getting crushed in the first match overall, and favorite KazChess is well on their way to advancing to the quarterfinals.