Alexei Shirov vs Magnus Carlsen, 5th MTel Masters 2009
Sicilian Defense (B33) · 1-0 (Alexei Shirov won) · 30 moves · Round 10 · 23 May 2009
About This Game
Game summary
- WhiteAlexei Shirov
- BlackMagnus Carlsen
- Result1-0 · Alexei Shirov won
- Event5th MTel Masters 2009
- Round10
- Date23 May 2009
- OpeningSicilian Defense (B33)
- Length30 moves
- Type of eventClassical
This is game 12 of 26 between Magnus Carlsen and Alexei Shirov in the Rama Chess database (2005–2025). In all their games Carlsen leads 15–2 with 9 draws.
Previous game: Carlsen vs Shirov, ½-½ (5th MTel Masters, 2009).
Next game: Shirov vs Carlsen, ½-½ (Corus A, 2010).
The moves of Alexei Shirov vs Magnus Carlsen, 5th MTel Masters 2009
In this encounter Alexei Shirov had the white pieces against Magnus Carlsen at 5th MTel Masters in 2009. It was played in round 10. The game dates from the modern computer-influenced era.
Play followed Sicilian Defense (B33) — sharp, double-edged play. These lines often lead to opposite-side castling and a race to attack.
Lasting 30 moves, the game was settled in the middlegame, where piece activity, pawn breaks and king safety all collide.
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.
Replaying a complete grandmaster game shows not just the moves, but the order in which plans appear and where the balance finally tips.
In the end, Alexei Shirov won with the white pieces. Use the board above to replay every move, switch to the analyser for engine evaluation, or open Practice mode to test your own ideas.
Frequently asked questions
What is the head-to-head record of Magnus Carlsen and Alexei Shirov?
In the 26 games between them in our database (2005 to 2025) Carlsen leads 15–2 with 9 draws. This game is number 12 of 26.
Where and when was Alexei Shirov vs Magnus Carlsen played?
At the 5th MTel Masters, round 10, on 23 May 2009.
Who played this game?
This game was played between Alexei Shirov (White) and Magnus Carlsen (Black), at 5th MTel Masters in 2009.
What opening was played?
The game used Sicilian Defense (ECO code B33). Sharp, double-edged play.
What was the result?
Alexei Shirov won with the white pieces.
How long was the game?
The game lasted 30 moves (59 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.