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The opening part of the fifth game was replay of the game three in which Anand used the Slav defence. In the fifth game Anand diverted from the earlier game by moving 15...h5 instead of 15...h6. Topalov continued with the logical 16. Ne2 having in mind Nf4, to exploit the newly created situation with Black pawn on h5.

Anand established strong Knight outpost on e5 and traded off a pair of Rooks to reduce White's chances of gaining initiative.

After further exchange of minor pieces, an endgame with Rook and Bishop versus Rook and Knight has arisen.

Anand's 29...g5 initiated changes in the pawn structure, which allowed him to solve one issue and concentrate on pieces' play.

Black Knight gradually suppressed White Bishop, which eventually landed on the backward d1-square. Right after the time-control, Topalov offered moves repetition before the situation goes out of the hand. Or perhaps it was a psychological move, attempting to test Anand's resolve to play for a win, in case of which White would also have chances for full point.

But Anand needed no risk and accepted the threefold repetition. Draw signed on move 44.

Game-5
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