Lai Ly Huynh shines in a '1 vs 2' match against two Chinese chess champions.

Specifically, in the match that afternoon, Lai Ly Huynh faced the champion of the Wuyang Cup - the formidable chess player Cheng Yudong from the Chinese chess community.

More than six months ago, Cheng Wudong was the one who defeated Lai Lihuang in the final of the Wuyang Cup, considered the most prestigious tournament in Chinese chess.

Following this championship, Cheng Yudong rose to join the top ranks of Chinese chess. Lai Lihuang himself continued to be recognized by the mainland chess community as the "number one overseas chess player" (the strongest chess player outside of China).

At the Asian Xiangqi Championship, Lai Ly Huynh reunited with Trinh Vu Dong, and also with Vuong Vu Bac - the reigning Chinese Xiangqi champion (i.e., the national champion).

"The Southern Prince" faced a difficult situation in the competition due to the tournament format. Twenty-four top players participated in the men's event, competing in seven group stage matches, with the top two advancing to the final.

Lai Ly Huynh is the only representative from Vietnam in the tournament, while China has two: Cheng Yudong and Wang Yubo. Both are considered among the strongest chess players in China today.

This format clearly puts Lai Ly Huynh at a disadvantage, because losing just one game against these two players would virtually eliminate his chances of reaching the final.

After winning the first two rounds against opponents from the Philippines and Indonesia, Lai Ly Huynh faced Trinh Vu Dong again on the afternoon of October 4th in the third round. He even had to play with the black pieces, meaning the Chinese player got to move first, giving him a huge advantage.

But then Lai Ly Huynh skillfully managed to draw with Trinh Vu Dong despite being at a disadvantage. This was an excellent result for him in the race for a top 2 finish.

Good news continued for the "Southern Prince" when Wang Yubo unexpectedly drew with Hong Kong player Feng Jiajun.

Thus, after 3 rounds, Lai Ly Huynh has 5 points from 2 wins and 1 draw, continuing to share the top spot with Trinh Vu Dong and Vuong Vu Bac.

In this three-way race, Lai Ly Huynh unexpectedly gained the advantage because, despite having the same 5 points, he had already overtaken Trinh Vu Dong.

In round 4, Lai Ly Huynh will face Vuong Vu Bac, but this time he has the first move. Even if he can't win, a draw would still be enough for Lai Ly Huynh to continue moving up in the race for the top 2.

The match between the Southern chess prodigy and the Chinese chess champion, taking place on the morning of October 5th, is the focal point for the entire top-level chess community.