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Play Like A World Champion: Botvinnik, Smyslov And Tal

NM Jeremy Kane

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Can you find the moves that decided World Championship matches in the 1950s and 60s?

In 1948 Mikhail Botvinnik won a match tournament to become the 6th World Champion. He lost and won back the title against both Vasily Smyslov and Mikhail Tal. All three of these amazing players were forces in the chess world for many years, even after their time on top.

Play Like the great David Bronstein!
Find the moves that took down Mikhail Botvinnik and those that won back the title against Smyslov and Tal.

Botvinnik vs Bronstein 1951

Mikhail Botvinnik's first title defense came against David Bronstein, one of the most creative players of all time.

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Botvinnik vs Smyslov 1954

In 1953 Vasily Smyslov won the famous Zurich candidates tournament to earn a match with Botvinnik.

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Smyslov vs Botvinnik 1957

Smyslov won another candidates cycle to earn a rematch. In 1957 he defeated Botvinnik decisively 12.5-9.5 to become champion. A key game was Smyslov's win in round six to tie the match.

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Botvinnik vs Smyslov 1958

After losing his title to Smyslov, Botvinnik had a right to a rematch the following year. After studying his defeat, Botvinnik was prepared and won the first three games en route to a 12.5-10.5 victory.

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