Game #12 | Gligoric vs. Fischer (Candidates 1959) | My 60 Memorable Games

In the twelfth game of Bobby Fischer's My 60 Memorable Games, Fischer faces Svetozar Gligoric at the 1959 Candidates Tournament. Fischer plays the Najdorf variation of the Sicilian Defense, and Gligoric responds with the sharp Bg5. Fischer's decision to castle kingside into a looming pawn storm creates a highly dynamic and dangerous position. Despite the aggressive storm, Fischer relies on his strategic advantages and resilience to weather the attack. The game approaches a drawish rook and pawn ending that nearly goes awry, but Fischer's precise technique and understanding of distant opposition secure the draw. Join me as I dissect Fischer’s daring choices and the key moments that led to his survival in this tense and instructive encounter.

Game Details:

Event: Candidates Tournament, 1959
White: Svetozar Gligoric
Black: Bobby Fischer
Opening: Sicilian Defense, Najdorf Variation
Result: ½–½ (Draw)