The Dutch city of Waik aan Zee is once again attracting the world of chess - the Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2026 has gathered the strongest grandmasters this year as well. In the round-robin tournament, 14 famous chess players compete daily on the principle of "one step - one big result." It is gratifying that after the 5th round, our compatriots Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Javokhir Sindarov are among the leaders.
In the fifth round, Nodirbek held the pressure in the "black"
One of the central matches of the round was the clash between Abdusattorov and Hans Neumann. Nodirbek, playing with black pieces, kept the opponent's activity under control and recorded a draw. This draw increased her points to 3.5, further fueling the struggle for top spots in the overall standings.
Javokhir snatched a "one point" in the nervous game
The 5th round was not easy for Sindarov: very tense situations were observed in the match against his opponent - Yoğiz Kan Erdoğmus. But our compatriot did not lose his composure until the end and won an important victory. The result is 3.5 points and a confident entry into the ranks of the leaders.
The leading group is compressed - every half point is gold
According to sources, after the 5th round, the group of leaders is very close: Abdusattorov, Sindarov, and Neyman scored 3.5 points each and are "one breath away" for first place. At such a time, not every draw, not every victory is a rating - it's a psychological advantage.
Big challenges await in the sixth round
Now attention to the 6th round: Nodirbek will play against the world champion Gukesh with white pieces - this match is one of the "big-screen" games that can change the mood of the tournament. Javohir will face another Indian, Chitambaram, in black pieces.
One thing is clear: no one will give gifts at this tournament in Weik aan Zee. But for now, our compatriots are following the "plan" - and most importantly, they are making their mark in the race for the leaders.
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