India loses to Uzbekistan

Defending champions India suffered their first defeat at the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, losing 1.5-2.5 to hosts Uzbekistan in Round 6. Tashkent Times reported that Uzbekistan now holds sole possession of first place, while India dropped to third seed with 10 points after six rounds — two points behind the leaders.
India's title defense crumbled in Round 6 when the defending champions fell to their first loss of the tournament. Bold News Online reported the final score: Uzbekistan 2.5, India 1.5. The defeat ended India's unbeaten streak and handed Uzbekistan a historic milestone — their first-ever Chess Olympiad victory over India.
The hosts' victory catapulted them to sole control of the Open section standings. Tashkent Times noted that Uzbekistan now leads the tournament after six rounds, breaking away from a crowded field. India's 10-point total leaves them two points adrift and fighting to reclaim momentum in the remaining rounds.
India's hopes of retaining the Olympiad crown face an uphill battle after the Samarkand loss. The Bridge reported that India seemed in control for much of the match but could not close it out. Rediff warned that defending their title remains "in trouble" following this critical defeat to the tournament hosts.
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