Challenger Nepomniachtchi, playing under a Russian Chess Federation flag, was using the white pieces and largely judged to have had the better of the exchanges, but could not turn that into a decisive advantage.

The game lasted 43 moves before both players agreed to call it a draw.

It is the fifth consecutive draw, and moves the score to 2.5-2.5.

Carlsen said he was "not thrilled with the game", but that "the result is fine."

There will be a rest day tomorrow in advance of the sixth game on Friday (December 3).

Norway's Carlsen is seeking to win the world title for the fifth time in succession, having held it since 2013.