Indian women got the better of Vietnam 2.5-1.5 while the men went down to Russia by a similar margin in the eighth round of the World Team Chess Championship in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia, on Sunday.
Eesha Karavade, playing white on third board, ensured that India bagged a one-point advantage by beating Thi Kim Phung Vo in 81 moves after the other three matches had ended in a draw.
The win took India to 17 points, two behind third placed China, with just one round left. The women take on Azerbaijan in the final round and only a clean sweep could help them get into a medal bracket.
In the men’s section, the Indian team fought hard and long but failed to at least pull off a draw against the formidable Russians.
After Krishnan Sasikiran and B Adhibhan played out quick draws, Vidit Gujarathi tried to drive home the advantage against Peter Svidler on the top board while Parimarjan Negi was battling for survival on the fourth. Gujarathi finally signed the peace pact after 65 moves but Negi ultimately surrendered after 81 moves.
The men are currently on 17.5 points and will face Norway in the final round.
