Rapport, a highly rated player, demonstrated his abilities by winning the third game in 55 moves and then defeating his opponent in a marathon fourth game to put an end to Gukesh’s hopes.
Erigaisi, who had upset Carlsen in the preliminary round, was defeated 0.5-2.5 by the world No.1 Norwegian.
After drawing from a nearly hopeless position in game one, Carlsen demonstrated his superiority by winning the next two games to advance to the final four round.
Jan-Krzystof Duda of Poland outplayed Gujrathi, winning 0.5-2.5 without much of a fight. Gukesh and Erigaisi had finished second and fourth in the preliminary round, respectively.
The Meltwater Champions tour’s Aim Chess Rapid tournament features 16 players, including five from India.
