notyetagm: Position after 25 d1-d3!
 click for larger viewWow, the Black g6-knight cannot move because it is <PINNED> against the f6-square! That is, for example, if 25 ... g6-e7?? to save the Black g6-knight, then 26 g4-f6+ simply wins the Black g7-queen since 26 ... g7x f6 is the only way for Black to get out of check.  click for larger viewThis is a -beautiful- example of the tactical theme <PINS AGAINST SQUARES>. Magnus' games feature many <PINS>. In this game, the White b3-bishop <PINS> the Black f7-pawn to the Black g8-king, while the White h6-rook <PINS> the Black g6-knight to the f6-square. Throw in the <STALEMATED> Black g8-king and you have all the tactical weaknesses you need for a miniature. Shirov could have resigned after 25 d1-d3! but apparently did not want to be miniaturized. It just amazes me that this kid (16 at the time of this game) can just wipe experienced and strong GMs right off the board like this. |