Khalifman, who took a one-point lead with a first-game demolition of Armenia's Vladimir Akopian on Sunday, drew the second in 18 moves while playing with an advantage of white pieces at Caesar's Palace. The Russian, who now has 1.5 points to half point of the Armenian.

The 33-year-old Khalifman opened the attack with pawn move (D4) and Akopian faced it with a knight (nf6) move and after the Russian opted no move on the 10th, indications were clear that Khalifman was playing it safe.