Ian Nepomniachtchi vs Magnus Carlsen, World Blitz 2018
Sicilian Defense (B33) · ½-½ (Draw) · 13 moves · Round 20.1 · 30 December 2018
About This Game
Game summary
- WhiteIan Nepomniachtchi
- BlackMagnus Carlsen
- Result½-½ · Draw
- EventWorld Blitz 2018
- Round20.1
- Date30 December 2018
- OpeningSicilian Defense (B33)
- Length13 moves
- Type of eventBlitz and bullet
This is game 17 of 173 between Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi in the Rama Chess database (2002–2025). In all their games Carlsen leads 67–25 with 81 draws.
Previous game: Carlsen vs Nepomniachtchi, 1-0 (World Rapid 2017, 2017).
Next game: Carlsen vs Nepomniachtchi, ½-½ (81st Tata Steel GpA, 2019).
The moves of Ian Nepomniachtchi vs Magnus Carlsen, World Blitz 2018
Ian Nepomniachtchi and Magnus Carlsen met over the board in this brisk miniature at World Blitz 2018 in 2018. The game dates from the contemporary engine era.
From Sicilian Defense (B33) the players entered sharp, double-edged play. These lines often lead to opposite-side castling and a race to attack.
The game was a sharp, short fight of 13 moves. Decisive games like this often hinge on a single tactical idea, making them good study material for spotting mistakes early.
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.
When the dust settled, the game was drawn between Ian Nepomniachtchi and Magnus Carlsen. Step through the moves on the interactive board above and try the position trainer to sharpen your own play.
Frequently asked questions
What is the head-to-head record of Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi?
In the 173 games between them in our database (2002 to 2025) Carlsen leads 67–25 with 81 draws. This game is number 17 of 173.
Where and when was Ian Nepomniachtchi vs Magnus Carlsen played?
At the World Blitz 2018, round 20.1, on 30 December 2018.
Who played this game?
This game was played between Ian Nepomniachtchi (White) and Magnus Carlsen (Black), at World Blitz 2018 in 2018.
What opening was played?
The game used Sicilian Defense (ECO code B33). Sharp, double-edged play.
What was the result?
The game was drawn between Ian Nepomniachtchi and Magnus Carlsen.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 13 moves (25 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 Sicilian Defense collection, Magnus Carlsen's complete game archive, and thousands more grandmaster games in the RamaChess archive.