Alpine SG Pipers Claim Championship in Thrilling Global Chess League Final

The Alpine SG Pipers triumphed in the third edition of the Global Chess League (GCL), defeating the two-time defending champions, Triveni Continental Kings, on October 3, 2023. The Pipers showcased their strength in the final, winning the first rapid match with a score of 4-2 using black pieces, followed by a decisive 4.5-1.5 victory with white.

Having secured their place in the final after narrowly edging out Ganges Grandmasters, the Pipers demonstrated formidable skill and strategy. They entered the match with momentum on their side, particularly following a strong performance in the latter stages of the league. Notable contributions came from players like Nino Batsiashvili and Leon Luke Mendonca, who each won their games against formidable opponents. Batsiashvili outplayed Alexandra Kosteniuk in a complex bishop-knight endgame, while Mendonca forced Marc’Andria Maurizzi to resign after an intense 52 moves.

The Continental Kings, who were favorites going into the match, saw their star player Alireza Firouzja defeat Fabiano Caruana on the icon board, briefly reigniting hopes for a comeback. Yet, Anish Giri secured victory over Wei Yi, ensuring the Pipers took the first match decisively.

Giri expressed mixed emotions leading up to the final but felt elation after his two victories. “Yesterday I had a terrible match, but the team reached the final. But today there is no mixed feeling,” he stated after being named the Player of the Match.

The Continental Kings faced a challenging task of needing to score four points with black in the second rapid match. However, the Pipers maintained their lead as R Praggnanandhaa secured an early win against Vidit Gujrathi, and Giri added to their tally with another victory over Wei Yi, confirming the Pipers’ dominance.

The PBG Alaskan Knights finished third after a dramatic tie-break against Ganges Grandmasters. The playoff was tightly contested, with Ganges initially taking a 4-2 lead in the first rapid clash. The Alaskan Knights rallied back, forcing a blitz tie-break. In the critical moments, world champion D Gukesh overcame the legendary Viswanathan Anand to help his team clinch third place.

In the playoff, Anand won the first game against Gukesh and drew the second, giving the impression of a favorable position. However, Gukesh’s teammate, Arjun Erigaisi, dominated his opponent on the second board, maintaining balance in the match. The Alaskan Knights capitalized on their momentum, winning the first blitz tie-break 3.5-2.5, with significant contributions from Arjun, Kateryna Lagno, and Sara Khadem.

In a nail-biting conclusion, the Alaskan Knights led 3-2 in the second tie-break, relying on Gukesh’s match against Anand to secure their victory. Gukesh ultimately triumphed, winning in 49 moves and solidifying the third-place trophy for the Alaskan Knights.

The Global Chess League showcased thrilling competition and highlighted the talents of emerging and established players alike. The Alpine SG Pipers’ victory marks a significant achievement, reflecting their resilience and skill throughout the tournament.