Alexander Isak scored two early goals to give Liverpool a 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road, earning Andoni Iraola his first Premier League win.
Introduction:
Liverpool finally secured their first victory of the 2026-27 Premier League campaign, confidently defeating newly promoted Ipswich Town 2-0 at Portman Road. Following a pair of highly entertaining but frustrating 2-2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, the Reds delivered a commanding performance on the road. The result was a massive relief for the squad, officially handing new manager Andoni Iraola his maiden league win since taking charge at Anfield.
A Lightning-Fast Start
The match was effectively decided within the opening ten minutes as Liverpool stepped onto the pitch with incredible intensity. Alexander Isak, who joined the club in a blockbuster summer transfer, immediately proved his worth by scoring twice in rapid succession. In the 6th minute, Cody Gakpo picked out Isak with a perfectly timed pass. The Swedish international striker made no mistake, firing a powerful shot past Ipswich goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen to open the scoring. See also:Â Lamine Yamal and Raphinha Bag Braces as Barca Win 5-2
Just three minutes later, the dynamic attacking duo linked up once again. Gakpo played another clever through-ball to find Isak, who calmly slotted his finish at the near post to double Liverpool’s advantage in the 9th minute. Alexander Isak nearly completed a sensational first-half hat-trick when he tapped in a cross from teammate Florian Wirtz, but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside.
Ipswich Town Fights Back
Despite suffering a disastrous start, Ipswich Town gradually found their footing and significantly improved their play as the game progressed. Scherpen made several crucial saves—including stopping multiple dangerous long-range efforts from Dominik Szoboszlai—to successfully prevent Liverpool from extending their lead. In the second half, the Tractor Boys consistently threatened through Julio Enciso. The talented forward unleashed a curling strike that forced a brilliant diving save from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker. However, the hosts ultimately struggled to break down a resolute and highly disciplined Liverpool defense.
New Signings Show Promise
The match also featured the highly anticipated Premier League debut of Bradley Barcola, who recently arrived from Paris Saint-Germain. Barcola was introduced in the 64th minute, replacing VÃctor Muñoz, and instantly showed flashes of his immense pace. Liverpool managed the closing stages of the match with exceptional professional composure, keeping a vital clean sheet while securing all three points.
This comfortable 2-0 victory lifts Liverpool the Premier League table, effectively easing early-season pressure. Meanwhile, Ipswich Town faces a tough reality check following back-to-back defeats against top-tier opposition, leaving them with plenty of work ahead as the tough season continues.