Belgium fought hard in the second round of the Pandanet League, but Ireland came out on top.
Board 1 – Lucas Strikes First
Lucas (Black) faced Karl Irwin using a sharp modern opening. Karl built an early 13-point lead, but Lucas turned on the engines and showed exactly why he’s now 7d in France—flipping the game with precise reading and taking the win.
Belgium 1–0
Board 2 – Renaud’s Dragon Falls
Renaud (White) played a Cho Chickun territorial style before diving into Black’s moyo. A high quality fight broke out, but Renaud had to resign after his dragon died.
Belgium 1–1
Board 3 – Joachim’s Near Upset
Joachim (Black), fresh off a win at the Korean Prime Minister Cup a 1st Kyu, pushed Ireland’s 3rd board to the limit. He even led by 2 points in the endgame, but the win slipped away at the very end.
Belgium 1–2
Board 4 – Guillaume Outpaced
John Courtney controlled the rhythm from start to finish, slowly widening his lead until Guillaume’s group finally fell.
Final: Ireland 3–1 Belgium
complete results of the 2nd round: https://pandanet-igs.com/communities/euroteamchamps/rounds/1346
https://pandanet-igs.com/communities/euroteamchamps
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Not the result we hoped for, but plenty of promising play across the boards.
Next match: Belgium vs. Finland — December 9, 2025.
