Isak Double Gives Liverpool First Win Under Iraola

Alexander Isak struck twice inside the opening nine minutes as Liverpool secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town, giving new manager Andoni Iraola his first Premier League win.

The Sweden striker quickly settled any nerves around Liverpool's difficult start to the season, finding the net in the sixth and ninth minutes at Portman Road.

Liverpool had entered the match without a win from their opening two league fixtures, increasing the pressure on Iraola after draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. But Isak's early goals put the visitors firmly in control and allowed them to dictate the remainder of the contest.

Isak opened the scoring with a powerful low strike from inside the penalty area. Ipswich goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen managed to get a glove to the effort but could not prevent it from finding the net.

Three minutes later, Liverpool doubled their advantage. Cody Gakpo produced an excellent through ball to release Isak, who raced beyond Jacob Greaves before calmly placing his finish beyond the goalkeeper.

The result marked an important early milestone for Iraola, who succeeded Arne Slot during the summer after Liverpool's title defence collapsed in the previous campaign.

Liverpool had struggled to find their rhythm in their opening matches, making the trip to newly promoted Ipswich potentially awkward. The hosts had won their opening league game and had also taken an early lead during last week's defeat at Manchester United.

Instead, Liverpool produced a controlled and dominant performance, limiting Ipswich's attacking threat and comfortably protecting their advantage after the interval.

With the visitors in command, Iraola was able to introduce new signing Bradley Barcola in the 64th minute. The forward, who joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer, made his competitive debut after becoming the club's record signing.

Liverpool's defence remained solid throughout the second half, completing a deserved clean sheet and ensuring there was no late Ipswich comeback.

"We were more direct, which we wanted, at the start and we scored two great goals," Liverpool captain and central defender Virgil van Dijk told Sky Sports.

The victory provides Iraola with a timely boost and gives Liverpool their first three points of the Premier League campaign, while Ipswich were left to reflect on a frustrating afternoon after their promising opening to the season.