Magnus Carlsen leads the men's standings after the opening day of the King Salman World Blitz Championships in Moscow ©FIDE

Defending champion Magnus Carlsen of Norway suffered a rare defeat but recovered to lead the men's standings after the opening day of play at the King Salman World Blitz Championships in Moscow.

Carlsen, winner of the rapid title yesterday, was beaten by two-time Russian champion Dmitry Andreikin at Central Chess Club.

The Norwegian bounced back by winning four of his next five games to end the day in top spot.

Carlsen has 10 points after the first 12 rounds and will be favourite to wrap up yet another major crown tomorrow.

Kateryna Lagno of Russia is on course to retain her women's title ©FIDE
Kateryna Lagno of Russia is on course to retain her women's title ©FIDE

In the women's event, defending champion Kateryna Lagno of Russia has the outright lead on eight points.

Lagno, winner of the blitz title in 2018, is a point clear of four other players.

Compatriots Alexandra Kosteniuk, Daria Charochkina and Alina Kashlinskaya, and recently-crowned rapid world champion Humpy Koneru of India have seven points.

Action in both the men's and women's events is due to conclude tomorrow.