Liverpool back to winning ways
Liverpool are back to winning ways after securing a convincing 2–0 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Friday, September 4, 2026.
The result gave new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola his first Premier League victory since taking charge of the Reds and ended a frustrating run of two consecutive draws at the beginning of the 2026/27 campaign.
Alexander Isak was the star of the night, scoring twice inside the opening nine minutes to put Liverpool firmly in control. Both goals were assisted by Cody Gakpo, who delivered an outstanding attacking performance and played a major role in Liverpool’s quick start.
Isak Delivers Early Blow
Liverpool wasted little time making their intentions clear at Portman Road.
Isak opened the scoring in the sixth minute after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Gakpo. The Swedish striker showed his sharpness in front of goal, giving Ipswich goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga little chance to prevent Liverpool from taking an early lead.
Just three minutes later, Isak struck again.
Gakpo was once again the provider, finding the striker with another excellent delivery. Isak calmly finished the opportunity to complete his brace and give Liverpool a 2–0 advantage before the game had even reached the 10-minute mark.
The rapid double was exactly the kind of attacking display Liverpool supporters had been waiting to see following two 2–2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Liverpool Show Greater Control
Although Ipswich improved as the match progressed, Liverpool maintained enough control to protect their advantage and secure a clean sheet.
The hosts attempted to respond after the early setback and created moments of pressure, but Liverpool’s defence remained composed. The Reds were also dangerous whenever they moved forward, with Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai among those involved in Liverpool’s attacking play.
Liverpool’s ability to score early and then manage the game was one of the most encouraging aspects of the performance.
After conceding four goals in each of their opening two league matches, keeping Ipswich scoreless represented another important step forward for Iraola’s side.
Gakpo Proves His Importance
While Isak naturally took the headlines after scoring twice, Gakpo’s contribution should not be overlooked.
The Netherlands international provided both assists and was heavily involved in Liverpool’s attacking play. His movement and passing helped create the space Isak needed to punish Ipswich.
Captain Virgil van Dijk also praised Gakpo’s contribution after the match, highlighting the forward’s importance to Liverpool’s attack.
For Iraola, finding the right combinations in attack will be crucial as Liverpool navigate a demanding season across domestic and European competitions.
The early understanding between Isak and Gakpo could become particularly important if Liverpool are to challenge near the top of the Premier League.
Barcola Makes Liverpool Debut
Liverpool also handed a debut to new signing Bradley Barcola during the second half.
The French forward arrived at Liverpool with significant expectations and was introduced alongside other changes as Iraola looked to manage his squad after establishing a two-goal lead.
Barcola’s introduction added another attacking option for Liverpool and provided supporters with their first competitive glimpse of the new signing in a Reds shirt.
His arrival is another indication of Liverpool’s ambition following a busy summer transfer window.
Iraola Gets First Liverpool Win
The victory was particularly significant for Iraola.
The Spanish coach had started his Liverpool reign with two draws, leaving the club searching for their first Premier League victory of the new campaign.
That wait finally ended at Portman Road.
Liverpool now have five points from their opening three Premier League matches and moved into fifth place following the victory, although the position remains subject to the results of other teams during the weekend.
More importantly, the performance provided signs that Iraola’s tactical ideas are beginning to take shape.
Liverpool showed attacking speed, defensive discipline and the ability to control the game after establishing an early advantage.
Liverpool’s Next Challenge
The Reds will now turn their attention to European competition before returning to Premier League action.
Liverpool’s next league fixture is at home against Fulham on September 12, giving Iraola and his players an opportunity to build on the momentum gained from their victory at Ipswich.
The club will also have to manage the demands of Champions League football as the season gathers pace.
For Liverpool supporters, however, the immediate mood is considerably more positive.
After two frustrating draws, the Reds finally have their first Premier League win of the campaign. Isak has announced himself with a decisive two-goal performance, Gakpo has demonstrated his creative importance, and Iraola has his first league victory as Liverpool manager.
The season is still in its early stages, but Liverpool’s 2–0 victory over Ipswich could prove to be an important turning point.
The Reds are back to winning ways — and with Isak already finding his scoring touch, Liverpool will hope this is the beginning of a strong run of form.SEO title: Liverpool Back to Winning Ways as Alexander Isak Inspires 2–0 Win Over Ipswich
