How to win Equalized/Worst positions ?
Here's a practical approach on how to improve your position step-by-step when you are slightly worst.Recently, I played a match at the Zug Chess Club in Switzerland against a well-experienced player with a 1930 rating.
While his rating wasn’t particularly intimidating, I knew his years of experience could easily offset any rating difference, so I kept my expectations in check. At one point, the game reached a very balanced position—a true 50-50.
However, with a bit of patience and persistence, I managed to turn this balanced position in my favor.
Here’s how you can do the same when you’re stuck in an equal or even slightly worse situation.
Stay Grounded in Equal Positions
When a game reaches an equal point, don’t let yourself get too frustrated. Many players, especially newer ones, feel the urge to push for a big play, a flashy sacrifice, or some other game-changer.
But often, it’s best to take a different approach.
Balanced positions typically occur for one of three reasons:
- Equal Material: Both sides have the same pieces and pawns.
- Symmetrical Structure: The pawns mirror each other, with few weaknesses on either side.
- Balanced Piece Activity: Both sides have equally active (or inactive) pieces, so neither side has the edge.
At this point, your goal shouldn’t be a quick win but to nudge the position towards something more favorable, bit by bit.
I analysed the full game on my YouTube Channel.
So if you also want to learn how to convert advantages into wins, go check the link (btw I actually dropped a lot of knowledge) :
https://youtu.be/ir5NiaRUu70
Summary :
Look for Tiny Improvements
In my game, I noticed that by gradually improving the position of my pieces—especially the rooks and the bishop—I could slightly increase the pressure on my opponent.
In equal positions, small adjustments can make a difference.
Find squares for your pieces where they’re just a little more active.
These micro-improvements might not bring a direct advantage right away, but they often put enough pressure on your opponent to create a small slip.
Break Symmetry if You Can
If the board looks too symmetrical, try introducing even a minor imbalance.
You don’t need to take big risks; a small pawn move, a trade that opens up space, or even just placing your pieces in different structures than your opponent’s can nudge the game out of a deadlock.
In my game, a subtle pawn move created a slight weakness on my opponent’s queenside.
This opened up new opportunities and forced him into tougher decisions.
Stay Patient and Keep It Practical
Winning an equal or slightly worse position doesn’t mean you need to take major risks.
The trick is to stay calm, avoid rash decisions, and make the most of what’s there.
I kept things straightforward in Zug, avoiding unnecessary weaknesses and waiting for my opponent to give me just a small edge.
Once he made a slight error, I was ready to take advantage.
Once again, for a closer look at this game and the moves that made the difference, check out my full analysis on YouTube.
You’ll find in-depth explanations and ideas on how to push an equal or slightly worse game toward a win.
Turning an equal position around isn’t about a single clever tactic but about small, solid improvements that keep you in control.
Thank you,
Loris
Contact :
@chessloris (Instagram)
lorischesstrainer@gmail.com
Chess - FM Loris - YouTube