GCL 2026: Nepomniachtchi gives Carlsen a scare before getting past Sindarov on the clock

In the third round of the Global Chess League 2026, Ganges Grandmasters defeated Fyers American Gambits, handing Fyers their first loss of the season. Ian Nepomniachtchi put Magnus Carlsen under heavy pressure for most of their game, but Carlsen escaped with a draw. Nepomniachtchi then defeated Javokhir Sindarov on time, while Polina Shuvalova won her third consecutive game against Bibisara Assaubayeva. As a result, Fyers, Ganges, and Alpine APL Pipers are all tied on six match points, with Fyers leading on game points. The match highlighted the importance of time management and mental resilience in rapid team chess, and showed that underdog teams like Ganges can challenge the strongest squads when their key players deliver under pressure.