The Thrilling Mid-Stage of PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus
As the sun rises on the stunning Mediterranean backdrop of the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel and Spa, the excitement surrounding the PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus continues to escalate. Today marks the halfway point of the electrifying $5,300 EPT Main Event, with the action set to resume at 12 p.m. EEST. This tournament, which has drawn an impressive field of 1,320 players, is down to the final 144 contenders who are prepared to battle for a share of the generous $6,227,400 prize pool.
Leaderboard Dynamics
Emerging as the frontrunner from this star-studded field is Fahredin Mustafov from Bulgaria, commanding a substantial chip stack of 920,000. Close behind him is Russia’s keen player, Ivan Zabiiakin, sitting with 915,000 chips. Completing the top three is Germany’s Oliver Weis, who has managed to amass a solid stack of 715,000 chips. This positioning not only reflects their skill and strategy but also places them in an advantageous position as the tournament progresses.
Top Ten Chip Counts
The table below showcases the top competitors and their respective chip counts as they head into Day 3:
| Place | Player | Country | Chip Count | Big Blinds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fahredin Mustafov | Bulgaria | 920,000 | 184 |
| 2 | Ivan Zabiiakin | Russia | 915,000 | 183 |
| 3 | Oliver Weis | Germany | 715,000 | 143 |
| 4 | Damir Zhugralin | Kazakhstan | 705,000 | 141 |
| 5 | Shankui Li | China | 693,000 | 139 |
| 6 | Chakib Mhiri | Tunisia | 648,000 | 130 |
| 7 | Georgios Tsouloftas | Cyprus | 620,000 | 124 |
| 8 | Radoslav Stoyanov | Bulgaria | 575,000 | 115 |
| 9 | Boris Kuzmanovic | Croatia | 573,000 | 115 |
| 10 | Mohamad El Rais | Switzerland | 563,000 | 113 |
These players have demonstrated tremendous skills in navigating the tough waters of a major poker event, and their strategies will continue to be put to the test as the tournament unfolds.
A Prize to Be Won
This event’s total prize pool of $6,227,400 is a testament to its popularity and competitiveness. The stakes are high, with the eventual champion set to claim a staggering $1,030,000 in addition to the coveted EPT trophy. All players still in contention are assured at least $9,100, with pay jumps occurring with each elimination. The looming prospect of climbing the payouts adds an extra layer of intensity to the day’s play.
Rules and Format for Day 3
Day 3 will kick off with blinds at 2,500/5,000 and a 5,000 big blind ante. The tournament will run for five additional levels, during which we expect to see further thinning of the field as players vie for a spot at the coveted final table. A fresh twist for today’s game is the introduction of the shot clock—a mechanism designed to quicken the pace of play. Players will have 15 seconds for their first decision and 30 seconds for subsequent moves, with six time-bank cards to assist them in high-pressure situations.
Conclusion
With the competition tightening and the prize pool enticingly large, all eyes will be on the remaining players as they grapple for survival in the EPT Cyprus. The poker landscape is set for a day filled with suspense, strategy, and skill.
Stay tuned to PokerNews for all the latest updates and live coverage of this thrilling tournament as players navigate through the challenges of the big stage, seeking glory, prestige, and a life-changing payday.
