Game 13 of 16
Veselin Topalov — Vladimir Kramnik
13 October 2006 · Semi-Slav Defence · 36 moves
White
Veselin Topalov
½
vs
Black
Vladimir Kramnik
½
Summary
Rapid Tiebreak Game 1. Topalov presses with white at the faster time control, hoping that the quicker pace will suit his combinational style. But Kramnik holds comfortably, finding solid defensive resources and neutralising all threats. A steady draw sets the tone for the decisive tiebreak games to follow.
Commentary
Rapid Tiebreak Game 1 — Semi-Slav; the faster time control theoretically favours the more tactical Topalov.
Topalov tries to create complications in the middlegame but Kramnik stays remarkably solid under the increased time pressure.
Draw by repetition after 36 moves; the tiebreak is still wide open after the first rapid game.