Game 9 of 12
Vladimir Kramnik — Viswanathan Anand
1 November 2008 · Slav Defence · 51 moves
White
Vladimir Kramnik
½
vs
Black
Viswanathan Anand
½
Summary
A methodical draw. Kramnik plays the Slav as white and Anand defends solidly. No winning chances materialise for either side. Anand needs just 1 more point from 3 remaining games.
Commentary
Kramnik tries the Slav from the white side — probing for any weakness that Anand might have overlooked in his preparation.
Anand's defensive preparation is comprehensive; he equalises without difficulty and steers into a comfortable endgame.
After 51 moves the game is drawn — the match pressure is entirely on Kramnik, who is running out of chances.