Sports
ALEXANDER Isak scored twice as Liverpool defeated newly promoted Ipswich Town 2-0 to secure their first Premier League victory of the season.
The victory was also new manager Andoni Iraola’s first since replacing Arne Slot, who was sacked after a disappointing title defence last season.
Isak struck twice within the opening nine minutes at Portman Road to settle the encounter.
The Sweden international opened the scoring in the sixth minute after connecting with Cody Gakpo’s clever pass.
Isak controlled the ball between Leif Davis and Jacob Greaves before firing a powerful right-footed effort beyond Ipswich goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen.
Three minutes later, Gakpo produced another moment of quality, sending a pass from inside his own half towards Isak.
The striker used a left-foot flick to move past Greaves before rounding Scherpen and calmly finishing with his left foot.
The result marked a significant improvement for Isak after a difficult first season at Liverpool.
The £125 million signing struggled with injuries and form last season, scoring only four goals in 22 appearances.
He managed three Premier League goals in 14 appearances, totalling 703 minutes.
Isak has already matched that league tally this season and appeared more confident and effective against Ipswich.
Iraola said Isak was a “massive player” for Liverpool and expressed confidence that the striker would produce the required goals.
The manager, however, said his main focus would be on how Isak contributes to the team beyond scoring.
Isak said Liverpool had been waiting for their first victory and had discussed the importance of starting matches strongly.
He said the team’s improved pre-season had helped them develop the attacking style they wanted.
Meanwhile, Gakpo also played a major role in Liverpool’s victory despite having been linked with a move away from the club.
The Netherlands international created both goals and delivered an impressive all-round performance.
Gakpo had reportedly been close to joining Manchester City before the move collapsed, while Liverpool were unable to secure alternative attacking targets.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk welcomed Gakpo’s continued presence at the club.
He described the forward as important to Liverpool and expressed confidence that he would play a significant role during the season.
Isak also has a strong record at Portman Road, having scored five Premier League goals there since the start of the 2024-25 season.
His tally is reportedly the joint-highest by any player at an away ground during that period.
For Iraola, the victory provided encouragement after a difficult start, while Isak’s performance offered hope that the expensive striker is beginning to rediscover his best form.
The challenge for both manager and player will now be to ensure the performance represents the beginning of a sustained revival rather than a temporary return to form.(BBC)
M.P
Tags: Isak Liverpool