1. d2d4  1... g8f6  2. c2c4  2... e7e6  3. b1c3  3... f8b4  4. d1c2 One of White's most solid options against the Nimzo-Indian. 4... d7d6 Probably an indication that Abdusattorov was playing for a win. In the main variations with 4...0-0, the theory is very developed, and it can be difficult to find an idea to unbalance the game. 5. e2e3  5... e8g8  6. f1d3  6... c7c5  7. g1f3  7... b8c6  8. e1g1  8... b4c3 Usually after castling in these types of positions, it's a good idea for Black to take the knight on c3, since without the pin there's always the risk of the knight coming out and the bishop being badly placed on b4. 9. c2c3  9... d8e7 This is inaccurate. 10. d4c5 I like this decision a lot. White is heading for a position with a small advantage, reducing Black's active possibilities. 10... d6c5  11. f3e5 This is the point of White's previous move: White prevents e6-e5. 11... c6e5  12. c3e5  12... f8d8  13. d3c2  13... f6g4 Abdusattorov tries to gain some activity, but this probably worsens his position. 13...b6 or 13...Bd7 leads to a normal position with a slight but comfortable advantage for White. 14. e5g3  14... e6e5  15. f2f3  15... g4f6  16. b2b3 The pawn on e5 will require protection, and there's also a plan for White with f3-f4 at some point, opening the diagonal for the dark-squared bishop. 16... f6h5  17. g3f2  17... c8d7  18. c1b2  18... d7c6  19. a1d1 Simple play. 19... h7h6  20. h2h3 Both players improve their position slowly. At this point, it seemed that nothing drastic would happen soon, but we're in for a surprise. 20... h5f6  21. f2g3  21... d8d1  22. f1d1  22... a8e8 Protecting the pawn. 23. a2a4 The idea behind this move is probably to anticipate a possible a6-b5 plan by Black. 23... f6h5 The knight isn't doing anything here. 24. g3f2  24... e7g5 A surprising blunder by a player who is usually very alert to tactical details. 25. g2g4 White simply wins heavy material. 25... f7f5 A desperate move. 26. h3h4 