Riyadh, July 31 (NationPress) After an impressive comeback, Grandmaster Nihal Sarin, representing S8UL Esports, has successfully secured his place in the playoffs of the ongoing Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 in Saudi Arabia. He is set to face the five-time world champion, Magnus Carlsen, in the quarterfinals.

Initially struggling with a 0-2 defeat against fellow Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi on Day 1 of the group stage, Nihal rebounded spectacularly on Day 2. Demonstrating his rapid decision-making skills, he achieved a 2-0 victory over Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri in the lower bracket semi-final.

In the lower bracket final, the 21-year-old faced off against French Grandmaster Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. Despite encountering challenges in the first game, he managed to secure a draw through superb positional skills before clinching the match 1.5-0.5 with a decisive win in the second game, thus earning a coveted playoff spot from Group B.

“I am thrilled to reach the playoffs, especially after competing in such intense matches against both Anish and Maxime. These games truly tested my abilities, but I’m pleased I found my rhythm at the crucial moments. I’m eager to carry this momentum into the quarterfinals and give it my all,” stated Sarin.

The EWC 2025 Chess quarterfinals are scheduled to commence on Thursday, featuring matches that consist of four rapid games played in a 10+0 time control format. The intensity escalates in the semi-finals, comprising six games per match, culminating in a high-stakes Grand Final, which will follow a best-of-six-sets format.

With a staggering prize pool of USD 1.5 million (approximately Rs 12.9 crore), and USD 250,000 (around Rs 2.1 crore) designated for the champion, the tournament promises exhilarating battles between some of the sharpest minds globally.

As the first and only Indian team selected for the Esports World Cup Foundation’s prestigious Club Support Program, S8UL continues to elevate India's status on the international esports stage.