Zimbabwean International Master (IM) Rodwell Makoto wove a net of tactical brilliance against Latvian Grandmaster (GM) Nikita Meshkovs in the sixth round of the 45th Chess Olympiad.
Makoto, Zimbabwe’s multiple-time champion and seasoned World Cup veteran, planned out a symphony of moves that left his higher-rated opponent in a dizzying state of confusion.
In the endgame Makoto executed his moves with lethal precision, gradually tightening a vice-like grip on the position.
His endgame technique was a masterclass in efficiency, converting his advantage to secure a vital point for Zimbabwe.
Makoto’s performance, belying his 2311 rating, revealed his deep understanding of the game and his individual score is 3/4.
On the top board, US-based IM Farai Mandizha locked horns with Grandmaster Arturs Neiksans in a tense battle. Mandizha, displaying nerves of steel, weathered the Latvian’s onslaught to emerge with a draw, bringing his tournament tally to 1 point from 4 games.
However, the tide of fortune turned against Zimbabwe’s national champion, Emarald Mushore. Facing Latvian GM Toms Kantans, Mushore found himself outgunned in a strategic slugfest. Despite some resistance, Mushore succumbed to Kantans’ relentless pressure, leaving his tournament score at a respectable 2/5.
Vitalis Mapuranga pitted against the battle-hardened GM Ilmars Starostits and the game proved to be a baptism of fire as the Zimbabwean fell victim to a cunning tactical trap and he is on 2.5/5.
Despite Makoto’s brilliant efforts, Zimbabwe narrowly lost the match 2.5-1.5 to Latvia.
Can the Zimbabwe men’s team summon the spirit of Makoto’s brilliant performance and mount a comeback in the next round against Puerto Rico?
In stark contrast to their male counterparts, the Zimbabwean women’s team delivered a tour de force performance, crushing Cyprus with a resounding 3.5-0.5 victory.
Colleta Wakuruwarehwa’s draw on board three stood as the sole consolation for a shell-shocked Cypriot side.
Buoyed by this victory, the women’s team now turns their attention to their seventh-round clash with Ireland, brimming with confidence.
Standings and Next Round
Zimbabwe Men: 95th place, 3 wins, 3 losses
Next Round: vs. Puerto Rico
Zimbabwe Women: 90th place, 3 wins, 3 losses
Next Round: vs. Ireland (7th round)
