Daily chess puzzle: best of 2017

For the last few years I have, each day, posted a problem from one of a series of chess puzzle books. I have now chosen the next one to use, but before I start that series, I am going to introduce a bit of variety into my daily postings, by picking a pot pourri of chess highlights from 2017.

There is no structure to these selections: the common theme is that they are all positons or games that I have enjoyed, found interesting, or been amazed at during 2017.

I hope my readers find this series enjoyable: either being reminded of moves or games they enjoyed during the year, or by being introduced to interesting, challenging, or fun positions for the first time.

Black to move: what would you play?

So-Rapport, Tata Steel, 16/1/2017

Solution

Following yesterday’s puzzle from this game, another startling move: 1….Bc1!!  I watched the game live on Playchess; if I recall correctly, Richard didn’t take long in playing this move: I didn’t have time to choose what I would have played, but I doubt I would have considered it: alas, I self-deselect such amazing moves.

FEN

The game is on my Chessbase Cloud.

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