Huynh was the only Vietnamese representative in the tournament among 16 finalists, with the remaining 15 players coming from China. His journey to the final marked the first time a Vietnamese player has reached the championship match of the Wuyang Cup.

In the final, Huynh faced rising Chinese star Cheng Yudong, widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in China’s xiangqi scene.

In the first standard game, Huynh had the advantage of the first move. Both players adopted a cautious approach, carefully avoiding tactical errors. After a tense and balanced battle, the game ended in a draw.

Cheng took control in the second game, demonstrating precise calculation and structured play to gradually build an edge. Although Huynh created moments that forced his opponent to think carefully, Cheng maintained the initiative and converted his advantage to secure victory.

With one draw and one loss in the classical games, Huynh finished second overall, marking his first appearance in a Wuyang Cup final.

The runner-up position earned Huynh a prize of CNY180,000 (equivalent to over VND650 million).

Lai Ly Huynh storms into 2026 Wuyang Cup semifinals in China

VOV.VN - Vietnam’s No.1 Xiangqi player and reigning world champion Lai Ly Huynh secured top spot in Group B and the lone semifinal berth after an impressive finish at the ongoing 2026 Wuyang Cup in Guangzhou, China.