The FIDE World Cup 2025 is down to its final four. Chess fans are bracing themselves for a tight finish. The event has already given sharp openings, long endgames, bold attacks, and quiet grinding wins. Now, the semifinalists are set, and each player has reached this point with steady nerves and clear plans at the board.
The schedule is out, and the pairings are locked in and released. The next few days promise some of the strongest games in the FIDE World Cup 2025.
Who Made it to the Semifinals?
Four players fought through tough rounds to reach this stage. Each one came in with a different style, but all are showing resilience.
Two players from Uzbekistan have made headlines. Nodirbek Yakubboev kept his cool under pressure. He won his games with a clean, consistent strategy. Javokhir Sindarov impressed crowds with sharp tactical ideas and bold play. Their rise in this event has brought new attention to the young Uzbek squad’s strength.
China’s Wei Yi has pushed through with a combination of fearless attacking and ample preparation. His win over Arjun Erigaisi shows how fast he is. Andrey Esipenko has also played steadily and solidly. He has defended well in tough positions. He struck at the right moments during the tiebreaks.
Semifinal Pairings
The semifinals will host two exciting matches. Both pairings carry their own style and momentum.
- Match 01: Nodirbek Yakubboev vs Javokhir Sindarov
This match is going to set up two players from the same country against each other. The players know each other’s strong and weak points well. This adds a new layer to the fight. Yakubboev has a patient and structured style. Sindarov has a more aggressive approach. Fans can expect a tactical mix on the board with sharp middlegames and deep endgames.
- Match 02: Wei Yi vs Andrey Esipenko
Wei Yi comes in with attacking confidence, while Esipenko brings stability and careful planning. Their previous games in other events have shown contrasting styles. Wei Yi enjoys fast play with active pieces. Esipenko prefers controlled positions and small advantages that grow slowly. This pairing may lead to slower, strategic games that are highly instructive.
FIDE World Cup 2025 Semifinals
Matches begin on November 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM IST. The two rounds consist of two classical games. The players move to rapid and blitz tiebreaks on November 23, in case of a tie. Fans can expect a tactical mix on the board. The matches will have sharp middlegames and deep endgames.
The schedule is simple and steady:
- First game on November 21.
- Second game on November 22.
- Tiebreaks on November 23 (if needed).
- Finalists announced soon after.
Fans can follow all games online from the official broadcasts. The timing allows for global viewership because the event starts in the afternoon in India, reaching morning hours in Europe and late evening in the USA.
What Comes After the Semifinals?
The winners will step into the final round. They will fight for the Chess World Cup title. The final is not just about the award. It will give them international recognition. They will pave their way for future championships as well.
The two players who lose will move to a third-place playoff match. It will begin soon after the semifinals. This match matters for pride, ratings, and future seeding in top international events.
Conclusion
The FIDE World Cup 2025 has brought together four talented players who earned their places through sharp thinking and steady play. Each match offers a different style, and the schedule promises three days of intense chess. With the pairings set and the timing announced, fans can prepare for a thrilling finish. The next moves will shape the final and set the tone for upcoming top-level events in the chess calendar.
Visiting Goa to watch the semifinalists pave their way to the World Cup finals? Stay at Resort Rio to make the most of your trip. Check out our website and experience a combination of luxury and rich culture.
