ROUND four of the 2023 Minerva International Open Chess Tournament was surprisingly quiet, with a staggering 10 draws in the top 15 boards.
FM Roy Mwadzura, currently ranked fifth, held his own in a draw with FM Douglas Munenga in the fifth round. Now, Mwadzura, playing with the white pieces on board one, is set for a crucial encounter against FM Nase Lungu in a match that will heavily impact his final standings.
Meanwhile, Candidates champion Mugove Muririma defends the home turf with the black pieces against top-seed IM Gillan Bwalya on board four in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Equally crucial is Tapiwa Gore’s match on board five against FM Munenga. FM Jemusse Zhemba, on a steady rise towards the top, faces a stern test against veteran Elisha Chimbamu; both are standing strong with four points after five rounds.
The Women’s section continues to be dominated by WIM Anzel Laubscher, who has maintained a perfect score. WCM Hazel Mudodo trails closely behind with 4.5 points, and spectators eagerly await their sixth-round face-off.
Meanwhile, WCM Kudzanayi Charinda, after suffering a loss to Naomi Mwale in the fifth round, prepares to take on WCM Paidaishe Zengeni. Linda Shaba, who lost by default to WIM Laubscher in round five, is set to battle against Nomalungelo Mathe in the sixth round.
As we approach the final rounds, the stakes are getting higher. Hopefully, the players will maintain focus and strategy to finish in the top spots.
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