Poland’s women’s chess team experienced their first defeat at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, losing 1.5-2.5 to Kazakhstan in the ninth round. The loss dropped the Polish team from second to fifth place.
Kazakhstan Ends Poland’s Unbeaten Streak
The Polish women, seeded third, faced Kazakhstan, ranked 10th. Despite a draw by Alina Kaszlinska, Monika Soćko, and Oliwia Kiołbasa on the top three boards, the decisive game came on board four, where Alicja Śliwicka lost after a hard-fought battle against 17-year-old Alua Nurman.
Although Poland dropped in rankings, they remain in medal contention with two rounds left. Kazakhstan leads with 16 match points, followed by India (15), and a close pack of teams, including Poland with 14.
Men’s Team Climbs to 18th
In the open competition, Poland’s men defeated the Czech Republic 2.5-1.5, moving from 28th to 18th place. Kacper Piorun’s win on board three secured the victory, with Jan-Krzysztof Duda, Radosław Wojtaszek, and Mateusz Bartel all drawing.