Round two of the 2025 African Individual Chess Championship saw the women’s top seeds take firm control, delivering confident wins and living up to their billing as title favorites.
The second round of the 2025 African Individual Chess Championship concluded with a resounding statement from the tournament’s top seeds in the women’s section, as they showcased both power and poise in a day filled with high-stakes drama and tactical brilliance.
Leading the charge were Egyptian sisters WGM Shrook Wafa and WGM Shahenda Wafa, who delivered commanding performances to cement their status as frontrunners. Shrook, the top seed and a multiple-time African champion, dismantled Jana Mohamed in a razor-sharp tactical duel, reinforcing her dominance on the continental stage. Her younger sister Shahenda was equally ruthless, dispatching Cote d’Ivoire’s Esther Ayemou with surgical precision. With two wins apiece, the Wafa sisters are making it clear they’re not just here to participate — they’re here to claim gold.
In one of the most anticipated matchups of the round, defending champion WIM Jesse February of South Africa went head-to-head with compatriot WIM Anzel Laubscher in a gripping encounter that had spectators on the edge of their seats. The reigning queen of African chess prevailed in a tense, tactical affair that tested both players’ nerves and preparation. With this win, February not only keeps her perfect score intact but also sends a strong message to her challengers — she’s not ready to give up her crown without a fight.
Joining the Wafa sisters and February in the undefeated ranks are Algeria’s WIM Lina Nassr and Egypt’s WIM Joy Romany, who both notched up impressive victories to remain in contention as the leaderboard starts to take shape.
As the dust settles on round two, five women remain unbeaten — a testament to the high level of competition and the fierce determination on display. With the championship heating up, fans can look forward to more fireworks as the continent’s finest continue their quest for glory.
The battle lines are drawn, and the top seeds are standing tall. The next few rounds promise intense showdowns, bold sacrifices, and brilliant chess as Africa’s elite push closer to the coveted title.
