Pinoy chessers, Iranian foes fight for lead

MANILA, Philippines — After breezing past its first three opponents, the Philippine men’s team faces an acid test versus Iran at the resumption of the Asian Nations Online Chess Cup 2020 today.

The fourth-seeded Filipinos clash with the third-ranked Iranians in the fourth round with the winner keeping their place at the helm.

The Agila ng Pilipinas, who blanked Palestine and Syria, 4-0, and downed Thailand, 3-1, are expected to field red-hot Grandmaster Banjo Barcenilla and International Master Paulo Bersamina, who were perfect in their first three games, on board two and three, respectively.

GMs Mark Paragua and John Paul Gomez, who have 2.5 points apiece, are also expected to play against the strong Iranian squad led by GM Rinat Jumabaev.