[Skybird]

We're in the 25th move, and it seems to me that Carlsen got out of the biggest problems Anand confronted him with. Until 15th move, it was theory and they copied a game from younger tournament history that saw White projecting intimidating pressure on the c-file and a pawn on c7 (which is still there). Carlsen's position looked tightened. But so far Anand's initiative did not achieve anything on the board, only on the clocks: Anand has more than twice as much time left, Carlsen has 35 minutes for 15 remaining moves. He now tries to untie his queen from blocking c8 for the white pawn on c7, then can try to simplify position by offering an exchange of pieces on d6. I think he has managed to leave the worst threats behind by his excellent precise defence play for which he is famous.

I currently expect to see this ending not in a white victory, probably also not in a black victory: another draw, then. That is if no player fumbles. On the other hand, Carlsen would not be Carlsen if he would not try everthing to squeeze out a full point from a psoition that all others may see as a draw. And if there is one player in the world that can do that and is second to none in this special discipline, then it is Carlsen: fulling and dispersing the position until either the opponent looses his nerves, or a single drop of advantage trickles out and pushes the balance in Carlsen's favour. I read some players describing him as an Anaconda, therefore.

Another sharp game, btw. Like the opening two as well.