Levon Aronian defeated Magnus Carlsen at the 5th Norway Chess tournament on June 13, 2017. The Armenian grandmaster won with a stunning bishop sacrifice.
What happened?
The game started with a tricky line in the QGD Chebanenko Slav, and Carlsen didn't miss White's idea. However, Aronian's 10. Bc2 Rd8 11. a3! Bxa3 led to a finely balanced position.
Aronian's idea was based on an old tactical motif, the "Greek gift", which he first explored in 2003. Carlsen responded well, but Aronian calculated the tactical thickets all the way through.
Why it matters for Levon Aronian
This win is significant for Aronian, as it puts him in the lead with Hikaru Nakamura at 4-2. The tournament features the ten highest-rated players on the planet.
The Aronian-Carlsen battle stands out in a tournament with only five decisive games in the first five rounds. Aronian's win over Carlsen is considered one of the best games of the year.
What comes next?
Aronian will look to continue his strong performance in the tournament. He won against former world champion Vladimir Kramnik on Monday, solidifying his position in the lead.
The 5th Norway Chess tournament is being held in Stavanger, Norway, and features top players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura. Aronian's win against Carlsen has made the tournament even more exciting.
Aronian's strategy and skill have paid off, and he is now in a strong position to win the tournament. His game against Carlsen will be remembered as one of the best of the year.
The "Greek gift" sacrifice has been a part of chess for centuries, and Aronian's use of it against Carlsen was a stunning example of his skill and knowledge of the game.