One week to go: Kamsky-Topalov .....

In one week from now the first game of the Challenger’s Match between Gata Kamsky (USA) and Veselin Topalov (BUL) is scheduled. The match, officially called “World Chess Challenge Sofia 2009;, has a prize find of US $250,000 which will be shared equally by the players. In only eight games it will be decided who will challenge world champion Viswanathan Anand later this year.

From February 16th to 28th the match between Kamsky and Topalov match will take place in the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria. The Challenger’s Match will consist of 8 games and possible tie-breaks. The winner qualifies for the World Championship Match 2009. The web address of the official website is www.wccc2009.com.

http://www.chessvibes.com/reports/one-week-to-go-kamsky-topalov/#more-8043

What a farce FIDE is...

Oh well, should be some good chess. A wicked contrast in styles.

any bets?

Originally posted by clandarkfire
any bets?

yeah, i'll bet both of 'em make a lot of dough out of this match
.

I bet there is at least one draw.

Does anyone think Kamsky has a miniscule chance of winning this thing?

I think he'll be lucky if he wins one game.

Originally posted by clandarkfire
any bets?

Topalov would be my choice, but not by much. I'd say the odds are about 3-2 in favor of Topalov.😏

Surely Topalov is a very strong favourite

I'm definitely favouring Topalov. I wouldn't rule out Kamsky of course, but with Topalov's recent form and the effort he puts into his opening preparation, it's hard to see how it could go otherwise. Maybe Kamsky can surprise us.

I would evaluate their chances as equal. Topalov today is not the same Topalov as in 2005. And Kamsky has progressed during these years.

Originally posted by Korch
I would evaluate their chances as equal. Topalov today is not the same Topalov as in 2005. And Kamsky has progressed during these years.

well, Topalov is the man in form at the moment. He won Nanking in China. But I have to agree that Topalov is not the same man as in 2005. Perhaps down to his manager!!!
When did Kamsky play last? Dresden Olympiad?
I guess Topalov has the slight edge:
Topalov - Kamsky: 4-2

Originally posted by Alzheimer
When did Kamsky play last? Dresden Olympiad?

Corus.

I guess Topalov will win. Kamsky has been out of the race for too long .... but hey wait ... Kamsky was and ís a super talent ... so who knows what this match will bring ..... Anyway, I'm looking forward to the struggle 🙂

Topalov 2 wins, Kamsky 0 wins, 5 draws. (4.5-2.5)

Originally posted by Alzheimer
well, Topalov is the man in form at the moment. He won Nanking in China. But I have to agree that Topalov is not the same man as in 2005. Perhaps down to his manager!!!
When did Kamsky play last? Dresden Olympiad?
I guess Topalov has the slight edge:
Topalov - Kamsky: 4-2

I think Topolov winning the match 4-2 is impossible, unless Topalov has draw odds (or Kamsky resigns the match after only six games).