Paul Keres vs. Mikhail Botvinnik (1948 World Championship)

 One of Paul Keres' most famous games that involves a brilliant sacrifice was against Mikhail Botvinnik in the 1948 World Championship tournament. This game is often cited as an example of Keres' sharp tactical ability and his willingness to sacrifice material for a winning attack.

Paul Keres vs. Mikhail Botvinnik (1948 World Championship)

Key Sacrificial Moment:

In this game, Keres, playing as White, made a stunning bishop sacrifice that led to a powerful attack on Botvinnik's king.

Critical Moves and Sacrifice:

1. Opening Phase:

   • Keres played the Nimzo-Indian Defense as White, allowing him to build a strong pawn structure and place pressure on Botvinnik’s position.

   Moves:

   • 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O

2. The Middlegame:

   • Around move 15, Keres started to apply pressure on Botvinnik’s kingside. By deploying his pieces towards the center and kingside, he created threats that forced Botvinnik to weaken his position.

   Notable Moment:

   • Keres skillfully maneuvered his queen and bishop to set up an aggressive attack.

   Moves:

   • 15. Qg4 f5 16. Qh3 g6 (Botvinnik weakens his kingside)

3. The Brilliant Sacrifice:

   • Keres unleashed a devastating bishop sacrifice to crack open Botvinnik’s defense. The sacrifice forced the black king to become exposed and vulnerable to further attacks.

   Move:

   • 17. Bxf5!! (A brilliant move! Keres sacrifices his bishop to destroy the kingside pawn structure)

4. King Hunt:

   • After the sacrifice, Botvinnik had no choice but to accept the bishop, which opened up his kingside. Keres then launched a full-scale attack with his queen and rook, targeting the black king relentlessly.

   Follow-up Moves:

   • 17... gxf5 18. Qg3+ Kh8 19. Qe5+ Qf6 20. Qc7

5. Final Attack:

   • Keres’ pieces coordinated perfectly, and Botvinnik could not defend against the multiple threats. Keres followed up by bringing his rooks into the attack, ultimately forcing Botvinnik into a losing position.

   Moves:

   • 21. Rfe1 Rg8 22. Ne5 Rg7 23. Qd6 and Botvinnik was helpless. Keres continued to apply pressure until Botvinnik was forced to resign.

6. Resignation:

   • After 23. Qd6, Botvinnik could not defend against the threats of both a devastating checkmate and material losses. He resigned, giving Keres one of his most famous victories.

Summary of the Sacrifice:

The key moment in the game was Keres’ spectacular 17. Bxf5!!. This sacrifice is a textbook example of how to break down an opponent’s defense by giving up material for an unstoppable attack. After the sacrifice, Keres’ attack was swift and decisive, showcasing his tactical brilliance.

Download:

Paul Keres, 1571 games

Mikhail Botvinnik, 891 games