The first game of the FIDE World Cup final between India’s Praggnanandhaa and World No 1 Magnus Carlsen ended in a draw after 35 moves.

 Praggananandhaa, playing with white pieces, was ahead on time at the start of the contest, but was unable to press on his advantage and came under time trouble himself by the end. Both players will return for Game 2 of the final tomorrow.

Praggnandhaa had stunned World No 3 Fabiano Caruana on Monday via the tie-break in the semi-finals to set up a summit clash with Carlsen at the Fide World Cup. Thanks to making it to the final, Praggnanandhaa became the third youngest player after the legendary Bobby Fischer and Carlsen to qualify for the Candidates tournament.