Round 7 Recap: Uzbekistan extend their lead as India stay in the hunt
By Robby B. · Wed, 23 Sep 2026
Round 7 saw Uzbekistan strengthen their lead, while India kept their medal hopes alive and Praggnanandhaa produced the day’s standout win
Uzbekistan continued their march towards gold in the open section, while Armenia held the United States to a 2–2 draw in a hard-fought encounter. The result keeps Armenia among the leading contenders, while Uzbekistan now sit two match points clear at the top with four rounds remaining.India bounced back from their defeat to Uzbekistan with a crucial 2.5–1.5 victory over England. Gukesh was once again the star, moving to an impressive 6/7 and strengthening his individual medal hopes. Germany, the Netherlands and Azerbaijan also picked up convincing wins to remain in contention.The standout game of the day came from Praggnanandhaa, who produced a brilliant counterattack against Nikita Vitiugov. His stunning 26…Bd3!! and follow-up 27…Rc3!! turned the tables on White’s kingside attack and secured a memorable victory.In the women’s section, China and Kazakhstan saw their perfect records come to an end after a 2–2 draw in the day’s top match. India kept the pressure on with a dominant 3.5–0.5 win over Germany, while Georgia, Bulgaria and Armenia also collected important victories. The United States stayed in the chase with a 3–1 win over Switzerland, while France suffered a surprise defeat to Mongolia.Uzbekistan also bounced back in the women’s event, beating Slovenia 3.5–0.5, with Afruza Khamdamova producing an impressive attacking win on board one.