Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov commented on his victory over the leader of GCT Super Chess Classic Romania 2026, German GM Vincent Keymer. Javokhir says he expected Vincent to play the Tarrasch defense, and notes he figured this out from Keymer’s previous games.

Javokhir Sindarov

Javokhir Sindarov

Uzbek GM

“First win! After yesterday’s round, when he got a point, I expected him to play the Tarrasch Defense and play solid. And I just wanted, without any risk, a small game. During the game, I understood that he was trying to attack me and probably didn’t understand his position well.

Was that a strategic read? He always plays ‘c5’ or ‘c6’, so that’s why I expected him to play the Tarrasch. I already saw that when he has a good situation, he always plays a solid ‘c5’. So, I expected that. And I didn’t prepare too much, just a little bit!”

The GCT Super Chess Classic Romania 2026 takes place from May 14 to 23, at the National Bank of Romania, Bucharest. Javokhir Sindarov and Vincent Keymer hold 7th and 2nd place respectively after 7 rounds.

Credit: Lennart Ootes