Magnus Carlsen's English speaks to Hans Niemann

Featured is an instructive blitz chess game between Magnus Carlsen and Hans Niemann from the 2024 Speed Chess Championship Semi-finals held in Paris, France. Carlsen plays the English Opening and follows with a kingside fianchetto all while delaying the advance of his d-pawn. This allows Niemann the option to grab central space with d4, but he chooses otherwise. Once Carlsen plays d3, the idea to eventually establish a dangerous Alpha Zero pawn nears. Niemann allows this idea to surface unimpeded, and by move 13 we already observe a strategically won position for Carlsen.

Magnus Carlsen vs Hans Niemann, 2024 Speed Chess Championship Semi-finals

Below the video, there is a pop quiz with three questions. If you are interested in improving your game, devote some time to answering them before watching the video.
https://youtu.be/FLURE0duBBA

Question 1 of 3: What is black's best continuation to 8. e4?

Question 2 of 3: Why doesn't Carlsen play 10. cxd5?

Question 3 of 3: What is white's best reply to 21...Nxc1?

Closing words

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-Jerry