Liverpool secured their first victory of the new season, defeating hosts Ipswich Town 2–0 on Friday evening at Portman Road to open Matchday 3 of the Premier League.
The win marked the first under new manager Andoni Iraola following identical 2–2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest in their opening two fixtures, helping the squad shake off early pressure.
Liverpool needed just six minutes to open the scoring when Cody Gakpo slipped a pass through the Ipswich defence to Alexander Isak, who finished neatly. The duo combined again just three minutes later, with the Swedish striker sweeping home his second.
The visitors maintained control despite Ipswich’s efforts to mount a comeback, though Liverpool missed several opportunities to extend their lead. Summer signing Bradley Barcola made his official debut for the Reds, coming on as a substitute in the 64th minute.
Gakpo provided two assists in a single Premier League match for the second time in his career, having previously accomplished the feat against Newcastle in 2025. Meanwhile, Isak became the first Liverpool player to score twice within the opening nine minutes of a league match since Maxi Rodríguez against Fulham in May 2011, when the Argentine completed his brace inside seven minutes.
The double brought Isak’s tally to five goals in just two Premier League appearances at Portman Road since the start of the 2024–25 season. Only Liam Delap has scored more at the venue during this period (six goals in 18 matches), with Omari Hutchinson ranking third (three goals in 17 appearances).
Additionally, Liverpool extended their unbeaten streak against clubs with “Town” in their name to 21 matches across all competitions (16 wins, 5 draws), dating back to a defeat against Grimsby Town in October 2001.
The victory temporarily elevated the Reds to fifth place with five points, while Ipswich fell to 13th with three points.
Liverpool will next host Atlético Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday, September 9, in their Champions League opener, before returning to league action against Fulham at home on Saturday, September 12.
