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Vladimir Kramnik vs Peter Leko · 2004 · move 25.

White has advanced to b5. Should the pawn remain there, exchange, or move farther into Black’s position?

The fourteenth game of Kramnik and Leko’s 2004 world championship in Brissago becomes an instructive ending after the queens leave. White gains space on the queenside, keeps the rooks active, and eventually sends the king toward Black’s position. Study the coordination of king, rook and knight rather than looking for a single spectacular move.

Before reaching for a move, identify the opponent’s immediate threat and the piece you most want to improve. Then compare checks, captures and quiet moves. The complete interactive lesson will let you test your answer without revealing the historical continuation first.

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