About This Game
In this encounter Magnus Carlsen had the white pieces against Leon Luke Mendonca at Carlsen vs. Challengers in 2021. The game dates from the contemporary engine era.
From Old Indian Defense (A50) the players entered a flexible, manoeuvring struggle. Openings in this group reward patient build-up and a feel for pawn structure.
At 62 moves this was a long, demanding struggle that rewarded stamina and precise endgame technique.
Magnus Carlsen is one of the grandmasters featured in the RamaChess archive, where you can browse their complete game collection, favourite openings and notable wins.
Games like this are useful at every level: opening principles for beginners, middlegame plans for club players, fine technique for experts.
After the contest, Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces. Step through the moves on the interactive board above and try the position trainer to sharpen your own play.
Frequently asked questions
Who played this game?
This game was played between Magnus Carlsen (White) and Leon Luke Mendonca (Black), at Carlsen vs. Challengers in 2021.
What opening was played?
The game used Old Indian Defense (ECO code A50). A flexible, manoeuvring struggle.
What was the result?
Magnus Carlsen won with the white pieces.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 62 moves (123 plies).
Can I replay this game move by move?
Yes. Use the interactive board on this page to step through every move, or open the analyser and Practice mode.
Where can I find more games like this?
Browse the full Old Indian Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.