Malakhov is not an easy player to play against. At this point, I also do not believe that anyone will take Wesley for granted again. His opponent and his team will be prepared for this match. Therefore, I think it is very important for Wesley to vary his openings against Malakhov so he does not walk into any home analysis.

In addition, just as my take in previous games, it is critical for Wesley not to get into time pressure. This is very important, especially in knockout format.

Again, I think the pressure is on his opponent because he is higher rated and he saw what Wesley has done in the previous few rounds.

I wish Wesley the best. Win, lose, or draw, we should all be proud of what he has accomplished in Khanty-Mansiysk.

— Susan Polgar in The chess games of Wesley So thread.

Kind words from Susan Polgar.