Zagreb: Indian grandmaster and reigning world champion D Gukesh delivered another shock to world number one Magnus Carlsen at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2025 in Zagreb, extending his win streak to five matches on Thursday.

This latest triumph has made Gukesh the sole leader of the tournament with 10 points at the end of day two. Carlsen trails behind with six points, while Jan-Krzysztof Duda remains Gukesh's closest rival with eight points going into the final rounds.

Gukesh capitalises on Carlsen's costly blunder

In a tense rapid game, Carlsen opened with the white pieces and appeared dominant in the early stages. Gukesh, playing black, struggled initially and admitted post-match, “I had a horrible opening.”

However, the contest turned after Carlsen pushed his b pawn to b4 — a move that shifted the game’s momentum. Gukesh seized control, pushing Carlsen onto the back foot.

With under 30 seconds left on his clock, Carlsen saw no escape and quietly resigned, shaking Gukesh’s hand without eye contact or visible emotion.

“Beating Magnus is always special”

Reflecting on the victory, Gukesh said, “Beating Magnus is always special, and this gives a bit more confidence.”

Chess legend and former world champion Garry Kasparov, commentating live, was critical of Carlsen's choices. “Now we can question Magnus' domination because this is not just his second loss to Gukesh, it's a convincing loss,” Kasparov remarked. He particularly disapproved of the b4 pawn push, which proved decisive.

Gukesh’s momentum continues from Norway Chess

This victory marks Gukesh’s second major win against Carlsen in as many months. He had previously defeated the Norwegian in Round 6 of the Norway Chess tournament, underlining his strong run of form.

As the final rounds approach, the young Indian grandmaster remains two points clear of his nearest challenger, keeping hopes high for a historic finish in Zagreb.