Anish Giri achieved a pivotal victory over Fabiano Caruana playing with the black pieces in Wednesday’s ninth round of the Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, thereby moving into sole second place. Tournament leader Javokhir Sindarov, despite missing winning opportunities, was held to a draw by Matthias Bluebaum, yet he still maintains a 1½-point lead over Giri. The remaining two games also concluded in draws, notably including a tense battle where Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu was unable to convert a clear advantage against Wei Yi.

