D Gukesh holds Ding Liren to a hard-fought draw in World Chess Championship Game 5

D Gukesh and Ding Liren remained tied at 2.5-2.5 after an intense Game 5 draw in the World Chess Championship, with Gukesh's resilient defense countering Ding's calculated aggression to keep the series evenly poised.

In Short

• Gukesh held Ding Liren to an intense draw in Game 5
• Ding maintained control with black pieces but missed opportunities
• The championship score stayed tied at 2.5 points each

Indian prodigy D Gukesh fought to a hard-earned draw against reigning champion Ding Liren in the fifth game of the World Chess Championship on Saturday. The intense contest saw the 18-year-old challenger and the 32-year-old champion sign peace after 40 moves, marking their third draw in the series. With both players tied at 2.5 points, they remain five points shy of securing the coveted title.

Gukesh, the youngest-ever challenger for the world crown, employed the King's pawn opening but faced Ding's well-prepared French Defense for the second time in the match. Having lost the opening game to the same strategy, Gukesh approached cautiously, opting for the Exchange variation. Despite his efforts to create imbalances, Ding remained steadfast, maintaining a solid position throughout the game.

The match's critical juncture arrived as Gukesh allowed Ding to secure a protected passed pawn on the sixth rank. However, the defending champion chose an equalising endgame with opposite-colored bishops rather than pressing for a decisive edge. The ensuing endgame saw Ding part with a pawn to build a fortress, ensuring no further progress for either side.

Both players adhered to the championship’s minimum requirement of 40 moves before concluding the game. Although Ding briefly appeared to hold the upper hand, Gukesh's resilient defense ensured the game ended in a stalemate, preserving the deadlock at 2.5 points each.

Gukesh, who claimed victory in the third game of the series, showcased his unorthodox style by adopting the Exchange variation early in the game, removing queens by the ninth move. This uncharacteristic approach unsettled Ding momentarily but ultimately enabled the reigning champion to advance on the king’s side. A daring maneuver by Gukesh (Nxg5 followed by Ngf3) allowed Ding deeper penetration into his territory, but the young Indian’s tactical acumen thwarted any attempts at converting the advantage.

This marks the first game where Ding faced no significant trouble with the black pieces, reflecting his growing composure. As the championship progresses, both players will aim to break the deadlock and inch closer to the eight points required for victory.

With the score evenly poised, the stage is set for an intense finish as Gukesh continues to challenge the experienced Ding in his quest for the world title.