context: 1. e2e4 After choosing 1.d4 in the third game, which resulted in a win despite failing to gain an opening advantage, Gukesh returns to his favorite move. 1... e7e6 Ding chooses the French Defense again, showing that it's not a one-game choice, but probably his main weapon against 1.e4 in the match. 2. d2d4  2... d7d5  3. e4d5 A surprising decision, since the Exchange Variation is not the most exciting option and White has several ways to achieve sharp play in the French. I expected Gukesh to create as much tension as possible in the opening. 3... e6d5  4. g1f3  4... g8f6  5. f1d3  5... c7c5 Just Black's fourth most popular choice in this position. 6. c2c3  6... c5c4 Black decides to close the center. 7. d3c2 