Ivanov and Shabalov Advance to World Cup
August 3, 2009
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GM Alexander Shabalov, Photo Betsy Dynako
GM Alexander Shabalov tied for first place in the Continental Championship in São Paulo, Brazil (July 25-August 2) with Fidel Jimenez Corrales of Cuba, securing a World Cup spot. Shabalov won a crucial game in round eight against Brazil's top player, Giovanni Vescovi.

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The final position is very similar to a theoretical position in which even if White had an extra pawn on the g-file or h-file, the game would be drawn. But Shabalov's f-pawn assures the win- it will march up the board, distract Black's king from the safe g7-h7 haven and when the king goes to f7, the skewer trick Rh8 wins.

See the final standings here.

Meanwhile Ivanov and Friedel tied for 3rd-8th and had to playoff for the remaining four spots into the World Cup.

Ivanov advanced but Friedel missed out.

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After Josh Friedel recovers from his grueling tournament, check CLO for a report from him. Also read his first report from the scene, midway through the event.