Key Facts
• August 30: JT Professional Official Match held in Takamatsu’s Sunmesse Kagawa.
• Players: Takuya Nagase (32) vs Akihito Hirose (38), both top-tier shogi players.
• Nagase’s record: 10 wins, 4 losses against Hirose; currently on a 4-match winning streak.
• Hirose advanced to Round 2 after defeating Masayuki Toyoshima in Sapporo.
• Nagase’s career: 5 titles (1 Eiou, 4 Oza), 3 tournament wins, 6th JT Cup appearance.
• Hirose’s career: 2 titles (31st Ryuo, 51st Oi), 10th JT Cup appearance.
• Winner to face either Takumi Ito (22) or Amika Sato (37) in Osaka semifinals on November 9.
• JT Cup format: 12 top players, 10-minute time limit, 30-second moves after time runs out.
• Previous champion: Watanabe defeated Hirose for his 4th JT Cup title in 2024.
Summary
The JT Professional Official Match on August 30 in Takamatsu features a high-stakes clash between Takuya Nagase and Akihito Hirose. Nagase, known for his meticulous research and defensive playstyle, holds a strong record against Hirose, including a current 4-match winning streak. Hirose, a seasoned competitor, seeks to overcome his rival after advancing from Round 1 with a victory over Masayuki Toyoshima. The winner will secure a spot in the semifinals, set for November 9 in Osaka, against either Takumi Ito or Amika Sato. The JT Cup, a prestigious tournament featuring 12 elite players, continues to showcase the best of shogi with its fast-paced format and intense competition.
