Grandmaster Fidel Corrales Jimenez (gmcorrales)
Fidel Corrales Jimenez is a FIDE Grandmaster and popular chess streamer known for energetic commentary, practical decision-making, and a sense of humor sharp enough to call out a Botez Gambit or an LPDO the moment it appears. A veteran of elite events and online arenas alike, gmcorrales blends classical fundamentals with modern “click-speed” instincts, often turning slightly worse positions into full-on Swindle attempts—then smiling about it on stream.
Although he racks up staggering numbers in fast chess, his preferred time control is Daily chess—a nod to serious preparation, careful endgames, and the occasional long walk with his favorite passer before a tidy Building a bridge.
Style and Approach
Corrales thrives in complex middlegames where initiative, Counterplay, and endgame technique meet. His games frequently go the distance, and he’s comfortable guiding grindy positions to technical wins. When in doubt, he’s not shy about sending Harry up the board, and he appreciates a well-timed Exchange sac if it yields long-term Compensation.
- Endgame leaning: high “endgame frequency” with marathon fights and tenacious defense.
- Tactical radar: alert to forks, Pins, and the occasional Decoy to untangle tough defenses.
- Streamer’s mindset: explains ideas in human terms—why the “second best” may still be the practical best.
Peak online blitz strength: 3062 (2025-10-05). For the data-inclined, here’s a light look at the trend:
.Repertoire Notes
Fidel’s repertoire is pragmatic and battle-tested. As Black he isn’t afraid of heavy theory, and as White he’s happy to steer toward rich, imbalanced play where he can out-calculate in the clutch.
- Caro–Kann Defense: a long-term workhorse—solid, resilient, and endgame-friendly.
- Sicilian Najdorf: enters sharp mainlines with room for a home-cooked TN or two.
- Scotch Game and Scandinavian Defense: straightforward central fights with clear strategic plans.
- Occasional Modern setups: flexible, hypermodern structures that invite dynamic Counterplay.
Frequent Rivals and Sparring Partners
Online, GM Corrales has logged thousands of blitz games against a who’s who of speed-chess specialists and titled grinders. You’ll often see him paired with:
- puckmate99 — marathon matchups and clutch tiebreak energy
- gm_dmitrij — theoretical duels and razor-thin endgames
- baldalbino — defensive resourcefulness meets attacking flair
- roiyeho — drawish walls and sudden breaks through the fortress
- gigaquparadze — sharp openings and mutual time-trouble scrambles
Streamer and Educator
As a streamer, Fidel mixes instructive breakdowns with a healthy dose of humor. Expect live prep, opening experiments, and honest post-mortems—whether it’s a clean squeeze or a last-second Flagging fiesta. He’s equally comfortable demystifying a “quiet” positional squeeze or celebrating a swashbuckling miniature worthy of a Brilliancy prize.
Mini-idea: A Caro–Kann Comfort Zone
A sample line he often steers into—solid development with long-term chances and a late-game pull:
Plans: central control, harmonious development, and a steady hand if the game drifts into a queenless middlegame or pure endgame. Beware the LPDO—“loose pieces drop off”—and keep an eye on those Hanging pawns when the center opens.
Fun Facts
- Preferred online time control: Daily chess—a surprise for a blitz specialist, but perfect for deep prep and clean technique.
- Longest online win heater: 20 games; proof that momentum is real and the Magnus effect has cousins.
- Loves endgames, but never says no to a timely Greek gift or a speculative Queen sac if the practical chances are there.
Legacy in a Line
Grandmaster Fidel Corrales Jimenez is a modern hybrid: a classically grounded attacker, a fearless speed-chess competitor, and a charismatic chessfluencer who can make a “quiet move” feel like a plot twist. Whether he’s guiding a Pawn roller to glory or converting a “dead equal” into a technical win, gmcorrales makes strong chess feel accessible—and fun.