Lazavik Advances to Esports World Cup Quarterfinals After Upset Win

19-year-old GM Denis Lazavik defeated GM Ian Nepomniachtchi to secure a spot in the 2026 Esports World Cup quarterfinals, where he will face GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov.

The playoff bracket, beginning August 14, also features GM Nihal Sarin against defending champion GM Magnus Carlsen, following Nihal's victory over GM Jan-Krzysztof Duda in the Lower Bracket.

Other quarterfinal matchups include GM Arjun Erigaisi against GM Hikaru Nakamura and GM Hans Niemann facing GM Alireza Firouzja, following the conclusion of the group stage on August 13.