Liverpool are beginning to show why they could become an increasingly dangerous side this season. Their 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Friday, August 29, 2026, was more than just three points.
It was also a glimpse of an exciting attacking partnership.
Alexander Isak stole the spotlight by scoring twice inside the opening nine minuteB. Yet behind the Sweden striker’s clinical finishing was Cody Gakpo, who provided two assists and played a major role in Liverpool’s fast start.
For manager Andoni Iraola, the connection between Isak and Gakpo could give Liverpool valuable options in attack as the season progresses.
Liverpool Learn From Previous Mistakes
Iraola was delighted with both the result and Liverpool’s performance against Ipswich.
The Reds started aggressively, putting their opponents under pressure from the opening stages. Unlike in their previous two matches, when Liverpool had problems after conceding early goals, they made sure to take control first.
“We are very happy with the win. We needed this win and also the performance,” Iraola said.
Liverpool’s approach paid off quickly.
Isak found the net twice during the first nine minutes, giving the visitors a perfect start and putting Ipswich under immediate pressure.
According to Iraola, the performance showed that Liverpool had learned from the problems they experienced in their previous games.
“We learned from the last two games when we conceded early. Today we did not want that to happen and we were very strong in the first half,” he explained.
Liverpool were less aggressive after the break, but Iraola did not see that as a major problem.
Instead, he was pleased that his players could control the match and defend their advantage until the final whistle.
Isak Finishes, Gakpo Creates
Alexander Isak naturally received most of the attention after scoring twice, but his performance was closely connected to Cody Gakpo’s contribution.
The Dutch forward supplied both assists for Isak, highlighting the growing understanding between the two attackers.
For Liverpool, that combination could become one of the most interesting aspects of their attacking setup.
Iraola believes Isak can produce impressive numbers when he is fit, available, and surrounded by a team playing well.
“If Alex is fit, available and in good condition, I think he will produce those numbers,” Iraola said.
However, the Liverpool manager does not want Isak’s contribution to be measured only through goals.
He also expects the striker to influence the wider attacking structure and make the right movements within the team.
“If we play well and are in good positions, the goals will come,” Iraola added.
That philosophy was visible against Ipswich. Isak provided the finishing touch, while Gakpo helped create the opportunities.
The partnership could therefore give Liverpool another attacking dimension as they look ahead to a demanding season.
Cody Gakpo Gives Liverpool More Flexibility
Gakpo’s performance against Ipswich was another reason for Iraola to be pleased.
The 27-year-old had already impressed during preseason and continued that form once competitive football began.
“I have no doubts about Cody. He was very good throughout preseason, started this season very well and is producing the numbers,” Iraola said.
One of Gakpo’s biggest strengths is his ability to operate in three different attacking positions.
That flexibility gives Iraola more freedom when selecting his front line and adjusting the team during matches.
Against Ipswich, Gakpo first played an important role in creating Isak’s goals before moving into the No. 9 position later in the game.
His ability to switch roles without disrupting Liverpool’s attacking structure could prove particularly valuable.
Gakpo’s key contributions against Ipswich:
- Two assists for Alexander Isak
- Created opportunities from the attacking areas
- Later moved into the No. 9 position
- Added tactical flexibility to Liverpool’s forward line
Competition for attacking places is also becoming increasingly intense.
Gakpo faces competition from Bradley Barcola, Rio Ngumoha, and Victor Munoz. However, Iraola sees the situation as a positive rather than a problem.
Healthy competition means players have to continue performing at a high level. No one can assume they will automatically start every match.
Bradley Barcola Makes Positive Return
Liverpool also received encouraging news from Bradley Barcola.
The forward came off the bench during the second half and played around 30 minutes. Iraola deliberately limited his playing time because Barcola had not played since the World Cup.
“Bradley had not played a minute since the World Cup, so we had to be careful,” Iraola explained.
Despite the limited minutes, Iraola was pleased with what he saw.
Barcola had trained well and showed his ability to threaten opponents when carrying the ball. He also created moments that could have developed into dangerous situations, although Liverpool were unable to turn them into another goal.
For Iraola, the 30-minute appearance at Portman Road was a positive step in Barcola’s return to full fitness.
With Liverpool facing an increasingly demanding schedule, the forward should have opportunities to build his rhythm and contribute more.
Liverpool Have Reasons to Be Optimistic
The 2-0 win over Ipswich gave Liverpool more than a clean sheet and three points.
It showed a team capable of responding to earlier problems, controlling a match after taking the lead, and creating a promising attacking connection.
Alexander Isak provided the finishing quality, while Cody Gakpo supplied the creativity behind both goals. Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola’s return adds another option to an already competitive forward line.
For Iraola, the challenge now is to keep that momentum going.
Liverpool still have a long season ahead, but the early signs are encouraging. If the understanding between Isak and Gakpo continues to grow, the Reds could have another powerful attacking weapon at their disposal.
ALSO READ :
