HA NOI – International Grandmaster Le Quang Liem defeated China's Xiu Deshun in the fifth game of the second International HD Bank Chess Tournament in HCM City yesterday.

Earlier in the day, the two-time Aeroflot champion beat teammate Vo Thanh Ninh in the fourth match.

After three days, undefeated Liem lies in second place on 4.5 points with China's GM Ni Hua taking the lead with five points.

The two are set to meet today.

Viet Nam has proved its prowess with masters Cao Sang, Nguyen Van Huy and Nguyen Duc Hoa in the leading group on four points each and an additional six ready to move up with 3.5 points.

The annual HD Bank competition is the biggest chess event in Viet Nam.

In its first session last year, Yu Yangyi of China took the victory while Liem finished fourth.

The event will be wrapped up on Thursday. – VNS