Game of the Week 5/52
Tata Steel 2026 has come to an end, and what a fiercely contested tournament it was! There were so many exciting games this year that picking a single Game of the Week was no easy task. In fact, several other games could have deserved this honor. Yet, for me, this particular encounter stood out the most. It may have been short, but its intensity, precision, and instructive ideas make it a perfect showcase of the fighting spirit that defined this year’s event.If you’re here to sharpen your skills and really work on your chess, try solving the next 6 positions before diving into the analysis. But if you’re just here for fun and want to enjoy the game, feel free to scroll straight to the full breakdown. Have fun!
BLACK TO MOVE. What is White aiming for, and how should Black respond?
BLACK TO MOVE. Find the best defensive idea here.
BLACK TO MOVE. Decide between three options — A) Nf6, B) Ng7, or C) Qh4. Calculate the consequences, evaluate the resulting positions, and pick the move you would play in the game.
BLACK TO MOVE. Find the winning idea.
WHITE TO MOVE. Try to find the strongest continuation and calculate the lines all the way to a clear evaluation.
WHITE TO MOVE. What did Giri overlook?
The game was played in round 10 of Tata Steel Chess 2026, 28. 1. 2026
between GM Bluebaum (2679) and GM Giri (2760)
Thanks so much for following along! I hope you enjoyed the game and the key lessons it offers. If you have an idea for Game of the Week feel free to send me a message on Lichess. I’d love to hear your suggestions!
