1. e2e4 Ding can play all three pawn moves (1.e4, 1.d4, and 1.c4), but opening with the king pawn was a bit of a surprise to me, as it's the one he plays the least. Furthermore, after his win with Black in the first game, one would expect him to avoid the sharp play resulting from a Sicilian defense, for example. But Gukesh decides to play solid, which is a good strategy after a loss. 1... e7e5  2. g1f3  2... b8c6  3. f1c4  3... f8c5  4. d2d3  4... g8f6  5. b1c3 This is the first time Ding has played this move. It's White's third most popular choice. 5... a7a6  6. a2a4  6... d7d6  7. e1g1 As always in the Italian opening, several move orders and alternatives are possible, although the game's character doesn't change much. 7... h7h6 Preventing problems with the bishop's pin on g5. 8. c1e3  8... c8e6  9. a4a5 A new move, gaining space on the queenside and inviting Black to sharpen the game. Praggnanandhaa tried two alternatives but failed to get any advantage: 9... e6c4  10. d3c4 An important moment in the game, as Black has a few options. 10... e8g8  11. e3c5  11... d6c5  12. b2b3 A good and solid move, reinforcing the pawn on c4. 12... d8d1  13. f1d1  13... a8d8  14. d1c1 Somewhat strange looking, but White prevents the rook exchange and wants to play Ne1-d3. 14... c6d4  15. f3e1  15... d8d6  16. g1f1  16... g7g6  17. c1d1 