A clean 4–0 result against the host nation shows an improving run for South Africa at the FIDE World Senior Team Championships 2026.
Durrës, Albania (29 April 2026) – Team South Africa continues to build momentum at the FIDE World Senior Team Championships 2026 in Durrës, with back-to-back victories highlighting an encouraging run for the side on the international stage.
The team produced one of its strongest performances of the tournament in round seven, sweeping past hosts Albania with a commanding 4–0 victory across all four boards.
On board one, Lyndon Bouah secured his first win of the competition after a composed display in a King’s Indian Defence battle. His result helped set the tone for the team’s clean sweep.
Shabier Bhawoodien followed with another confident performance on board two, converting an early pawn sacrifice into a well-controlled victory.
On board three, Anton Goosen showed strong tactical awareness to claim another important point for South Africa, while Andre Schutte completed the dominant outing with an endgame victory on board four.
The result followed another positive team performance against Guernsey, where South Africa secured a 2.5–1.5 win to continue climbing in the standings.
The recent performances mean South Africa now holds an overall record of three wins, three losses and one draw as the tournament continues in Albania.
After a difficult start to the championships, the side appears to be settling into a rhythm.
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