Liverpool finally secured their first Premier League victory under Andoni Iraola after Alexander Isak delivered a decisive early double in a 2–0 win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road.
The Swedish striker needed just nine minutes to make his mark, scoring twice in quick succession and giving Liverpool a comfortable advantage before Ipswich could establish any rhythm. Cody Gakpo played a key role in both goals, providing the assists that allowed Isak to punish the home defence.
The victory gave Iraola a much-needed breakthrough after Liverpool began his tenure with consecutive 2–2 league draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. The result also offered an early sign that the team is beginning to adapt to the manager’s approach.
Liverpool opened the scoring after only six minutes. Gakpo picked out Isak inside the area, and the forward reacted quickly to send a powerful shot toward goal. Ipswich goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen got a hand to the effort but was unable to keep it out.
The visitors struck again moments later. Gakpo once more found Isak, this time with a well-weighted pass into space behind the Ipswich back line. Isak stayed composed, controlled the ball and finished confidently to complete his rapid brace.
The two goals also marked an encouraging turnaround for Isak following a difficult first season at Anfield. Fitness problems limited his involvement last campaign, but the forward has started the new season in considerably stronger form. His double against Ipswich took his league tally to three goals from Liverpool’s opening three matches.
While the goals attracted most of the attention, Iraola will also have been pleased with Liverpool’s defensive display. Having conceded four goals in each of their opening league games, the visitors produced a controlled performance at the back and finished the night with a clean sheet.
Ipswich attempted to respond after the early setback but struggled to create enough clear opportunities. Liverpool remained the more threatening side and continued to find openings as the match progressed.
Isak even appeared to have completed a hat-trick after the interval when he converted a cross from Florian Wirtz. However, the goal was ruled out for offside, denying him the chance to leave the pitch with three goals.
Ipswich goalkeeper Scherpen was also called upon several times as Liverpool looked for a third. His saves helped keep the scoreline respectable and prevented the visitors from turning their early advantage into a heavier defeat.
Another notable moment came when Bradley Barcola made his Liverpool debut. The forward arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in a major transfer and was introduced during the second half, giving Iraola another attacking option as he continues to shape his squad.
Liverpool ultimately did not need another goal. Their early advantage proved sufficient, with the team managing the remainder of the contest professionally to secure all three points.
For Ipswich, the defeat represented another difficult evening after their return to the Premier League. The hosts were unable to recover from their disastrous opening spell and were left chasing the game for much of the contest.
The result moves Liverpool onto five points from their first three league fixtures and provides Iraola with his first win since taking charge. More importantly, the performance combined attacking efficiency with defensive discipline—two areas the manager will hope can become consistent features of his Liverpool side.
For Isak, meanwhile, the evening could prove especially significant. After an injury-affected campaign, his lightning-fast double has provided a timely reminder of his finishing ability and given Liverpool supporters renewed confidence in what he can contribute this season.