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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a highly anticipated FIDE World Cup final showdown in Baku, India's rising chess prodigy, Praggnanandhaa settled for a draw with the reigning World No. 1, Magnus Carlsen after first game on Tuesday. The first game of this thrilling encounter concluded in a draw after just 35 moves.

Playing with the white pieces, Praggnanandhaa started the game with a time advantage, showcasing his strategic prowess. However, he couldn't capitalize on this early advantage and found himself in time trouble as the game progressed, a challenge that even the World Champion, Carlsen, grappled with.

The draw sets the stage for an intriguing second game in this epic clash, with both players set to return to the board tomorrow, hungry for victory.

Also Read: FIDE World Cup chess: Praggnanandhaa stuns World No. 3 Caruana, set up title clash with Magnus Carlsen

Praggnanandhaa's journey to the final had been nothing short of spectacular, as he stunned World No. 3, Fabiano Caruana, in the semifinals via a tie-break. This remarkable achievement also made Praggnanandhaa the third youngest player in history, following in the footsteps of chess legends Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen, to qualify for the prestigious Candidates tournament.

As the chess world eagerly awaits the outcome of this historic battle, Praggnanandhaa's meteoric rise continues to captivate and inspire enthusiasts worldwide.