Verifying Georgiev and Kolev-The Sharpest Sicilian 2012

Here is game #24 from The Sharpest Sicilian 2012(The Sicilian Najforf) from Chess Stars by GMs Kiril Georgiev and Atanas Kolev.

 

This is a truly fantastic book that explains well, analyzes deeply and gives 46 annotated games as well.

 

 

 

Photo and info newinchess The_Sharpest_Sicilian_2012

The game was played by Atanas Kolev in 2007.

Photo KolevChess

I did my best to check the analysis of just one game and after an afternoon's work I'm not sure I found everying or checked every possible nook and cranny. There is tons of deep and original analysis give in the annotated games. I cannot possibily do it justice as an amateur but here are my findings for this game.

 

Papadopoulos,Ioannis (2450) - Kolev,Atanas (2569)
Sicilian Najdorf English Attack 6.Be3 e5 7.Nf3[B90]
Athens Acropolis op-A 24th Chalkida (3), 12.08.2009

 

Position 1
Black has initiated complex counteplay with 17...Nxf2. Black is willing to sacrifice the exchange for activity. How should white respond?

• 18.Qd2
• 18.Nxd7(as played)
• 18.Qd5
• Something else

 

White to Play

 

17...Nxf2

Position 2

Black has some compensation for the exchange and after 21...Bd8 is attacking the a-pawn. How should white respond?

• 22.0-0(as played)
• 22.b4
• Something else

White to Play

21...Bd8

Position 3

A sharp RB-RB opposite color bishop has arisen. The f-pawn is under attack after 41.Rd5. How should black respond?

Black to Play

41.Rd5