Alexander Isak ignited his Liverpool career with a match-winning double in a 2-0 Premier League victory at Ipswich Town on Friday. The Swedish striker's two goals inside nine minutes handed new manager Andoni Iraola his first win at the helm.
Cody Gakpo provided both assists for Isak's decisive contributions at Portman Road. The result ended a difficult start for Iraola, who had lost his first two matches in charge.
Alexander Isak delivered the clinical finishing Liverpool paid a British-record £125 million to secure from Newcastle United. He found the net twice in a blistering nine-minute spell. Last season, the 26-year-old managed just four goals in 22 appearances across all competitions. "It was not easy," Isak said. "It was a long injury, a difficult season in general." His early form this term is far more promising, with three goals in three Premier League games.
His partnership with Cody Gakpo was particularly effective against Ipswich. Gakpo, who was the subject of transfer interest from Tottenham and Manchester City before the deadline, created both opportunities for Isak. Liverpool successfully prevented the Dutch forward from leaving, a decision that paid immediate dividends in this fixture.
This 2-0 triumph represents a significant milestone for Andoni Iraola. After defeats in his opening two matches, securing three points eases the early pressure on the new boss. "Yes, with Alex, if he is fit, if he is available, if he is in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers," Iraola stated after the match. His faith in Isak's fitness and form was vindicated by the striker's match-winning display.
The victory provides a platform for Liverpool to build momentum. They face Fulham at Anfield in their next Premier League fixture on September 12th.
The match also saw a debut for another major signing, Bradley Barcola. The forward, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the week for a fee of £123 million, came on as a 64th-minute substitute. His introduction adds further attacking depth to a squad that Iraola will hope is now finding its rhythm.
With the transfer window closed, the manager's focus shifts entirely to extracting the best from his assembled squad. The performance against Ipswich, built on a solid defensive display and efficient attacking, offers a blueprint. Maintaining that balance will be important as they prepare for the visit of Fulham.
Liverpool's next challenge is to turn this away win into consistent form. They host Fulham on September 12th, aiming for back-to-back victories.
