Erbil, Iraq – October 9, 2025: The Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025 reached the halfway mark in dramatic fashion, as Round 5 concluded with intense battles from Asia’s top senior players.
Battle Heats Up in Erbil – Round 5 Concludes with Tight Contests in Both Divisions
The tournament, hosted by the Iraqi Chess Federation under the auspices of the Asian Chess Federation and the International Chess Federation (FIDE), is organized with the sponsorship of the Kurdistan Foundation and in coordination with the Khanzad Chess Club.
This prestigious continental event runs from October 4th to 14th, 2025, at the five-star Erbil International Hotel, in the heart of the vibrant and historic city of Erbil.
A symbolic first move by Dr. Jutyar Ali Yusuf, Honorary President of the Khanzad Chess Club, marks the start of the round as CM Marwan Aboudi (Jordan) faces Aziz Umarbekov (Kyrgyzstan). Observing the occasion are Dr. Dlzar Hama Salih Qader, President of the Khanzad Chess Club, and IA Mehrdad Pahlevanzadeh, Chief Arbiter of the tournament and Events Director of the Asian Chess Federation.
Round 5 Recap: Over-50 Category
On the top board, GM Ramil Hasangatin (Russia) and Aziz Umarbekov (Kyrgyzstan) fought to a tense draw, both maintaining their place among the leaders.
On board two, IM Talal Al-Zaim (Syria) was also held to a draw by CM Namir Mohammed Ismael (Iraq), while on the third board, IM Hussein Ali Al-Ali (Iraq) scored a key victory over CM Joseph Ebenezer (India).
On Board 4, CM Marwan Aboudi (Jordan) also joined the leading pack after a determined win over Aminullah Khairandish (Afghanistan).
After five rounds, four players — GM Ramil Hasangatin (Russia), Aziz Umarbekov (Kyrgyzstan), IM Hussein Ali Al-Ali (Iraq), and CM Marwan Aboudi (Jordan) — share the top position on 4 points each, setting the stage for a thrilling second half of the tournament.
Dr. Jutyar Ali Yusuf makes the symbolic first move in the all-Iranian encounter between FM Hossein Aryanejad and Aliasghar Akhavan Rad, marking the start of play.
Round 5 Recap: Over-65 Category
In the Over-65 section, Marat Primbetov (Kazakhstan) continues to lead the field after a well-fought draw with Aliasghar Akhavan Rad (Iran) on the top board.
On board two, FM Hossein Aryanejad (Iran) also split the point with Randolph Schain (Cambodia) in a balanced encounter, while the following boards saw intense games that kept the standings closely packed.
After Round 5, Marat Primbetov (Kazakhstan) maintains a slim lead with 4 points, followed closely by FM Hossein Aryanejad (Iran), Aliasghar Akhavan Rad (Iran), and Randolph Schain (Cambodia) on 3½ points. The Over-65 category remains wide open as the veterans prepare for the decisive final rounds.
Tournament arbiters and members of the live broadcast crew ensure smooth operations and fair play throughout the championship.