
Image of Magnus Carlsen courtesy of Lennart Ootes
Magnus Carlsen plays like AlphaZero
A deep mind produces a deep strategyFeatured in this analysis is the game between Magnus Carlsen and Nijat Abasov from the 2023 FIDE World Cup. The opening is a Sicilian Defense, Rossolimo Attack where Carlsen gambits a pawn by move 7. Carlsen’s play in this game resembles the strategies employed by the neural networks Alpha Zero and Leela Chess Zero. This resemblance is particularly evident in how one of Abasov’s pieces loses its effectiveness. Carlsen’s Rg1, akin to the Freak Attack in the Sicilian Najdorf, serves as a reminder to Abasov that his intact kingside structure may not provide the black king a safe haven. Carlsen’s gambit in this game is an excellent example for deep strategic play that provides one with multiple forms of long-term compensation.
Magnus Carlsen vs Nijat Abasov, 2023 FIDE World Cup
Below the video I have highlighted 3 positions
https://youtu.be/1KaOQaBIKuw
Question 1 of 3: How would you react to 7...Qd4?
Question 2 of 3: How should black reply to 10. Bb2?
Question 3 of 3: What is black's best reply?
Closing words
Thank you in advance for any likes and/or follows you may give. Any questions or comments you may have can be left on YouTube or in the forum below. If you enjoyed the featured video, you may also enjoy the playlist I've created Magnus Carlsen Chess Games. I hope you have, in some way, benefited from this post. Thank you for taking the time to read. -Jerry
More blog posts by Chess-Network

Praggnanandhaa's Brilliant Tactic at Tata Steel!!
One for the books
Gukesh D vs Anish Giri | Tata Steel Chess 2025
Dark square problems
Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi share Blitz Chess Champion Title in historic finale
A peaceful resolution