It's played in matches, sometimes (5)

I believe the answer is:

chess

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it's played' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'in matches sometimes' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'CHESS' is hidden within 'matches sometimes'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chess that I've seen before include "activity aimed at downfall of a king" , "Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus musical" , "Board game for two players" , "This is played on board" , "board meeting" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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