India, May 27 -- Magnus Carlsen was at his best, defeating D Gukesh in the opening round at Norway Chess 2025, in a classical contest which lasted for over four hours and 56 moves. It was the first time the pair met in the format, since D Gukesh became the World Championship.

Carlsen was at his best right from the get-go, using the Jobava London in his opening to unnerve Gukesh. But Gukesh fought back with his black pieces and didn't fall into the trap, and neutralised it by the 11th move. A huge blunder in the closing stages saw Gukesh resign, when he used his queen to check Carlsen, instead of the rook.

Speaking to Take Take Take after the win, Carlsen said, "I don't know if you should call this match old-school or new-school because ...