Game Of the Week: GM Ivan Solokov vs. GM Peter Leko

GM Ivan Solokov vs. GM Peter Leko

Opening: E53: Nimzo-Indian, 4.e3, Main line with ...c5

Player(s): Sokolov, Leko

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The Tata Steel tournament in Wijk aan Zee had its share of big stories: Magnus Carlsen's record tying 10/13 brought him closer to the magical 2900 mark. Levon Aronian's second place finish maintained the second spot in the world rankings. And Vishy Anand finally had the comeback result so many of us were waiting for. A last round loss dropped him into third place but could hardly damper the glow of his magical win over Aronian in round four.

But other players quietly turned in fine results. Peter Leko showed he is still relevant among elite players with a fine plus two finish. His win over Ivan Sokolov did not make the cut for game of the day but it deserves a second look. Playing against the isolated d-pawn, Leko unexpectedly took over the role as attacker. It's a game that is noteworthy in terms of both opening theory and strategy of a typical structure.