1. e2e4  1... c7c5  2. g1f3  2... b8c6  3. b1c3 Shirov uses a well-known move order designed to avoid the infamous Sveshnikov Sicilian. This variation of the Sicilian is one of Gukesh's favorite weapons with the black pieces; his recent, brilliant win over Nodirbek Abdusattorov in Biel is the best example. 3... e7e5 This is the most principled reply, ensuring that White can no longer get the open Sicilian. 4. f1c4  4... d7d6  5. d2d3  5... h7h6 Some decades ago, this would have been considered a second-rate move. However, almost everything Magnus Carlsen touches turns to gold, so this approach recently gained traction among the strong players. 6. c3d5 A rare but reasonable continuation. 6... g8f6  7. c2c3  7... f8e7  8. a2a3 Shirov's play is logical—he is preparing to seize space on the queenside with b2-b4. Gukesh decides to stop this plan in its tracks with 8... a7a5 This is a novelty. 9. h1g1 Shirov's trademark approach $1 He plans to exchange the f6-knight and push g2-g4, which usually gains in strength with the presence of the h6-hook. 9... f6d5  10. c4d5  10... c8e6 While it is vital to deal with the strong d5-bishop, this move could wait. 11. d5e6 There are instances when this exchange works well for White (the game Santos Latasa-Praggnanandhaa from the same match is a case in point), but this is not one of them. 11... f7e6 As a result of the exchange, Black gets an open f-file and stabilizes the center, but what does White get in return $2 Shirov tries to take the initiative with 12. g2g4  12... d8d7 Gukesh opts for the most pragmatic move, preparing queenside castling. 13. g4g5  13... h6g5  14. c1g5  14... e7g5  15. g1g5  15... e8c8 Shirov got what he wanted—he opened the g-file. However, this whole plan seems doubtful in hindsight since his opponent obtained semi-open h- and f-files, and two is more than one $1 16. d1e2  16... d8f8 