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Iraola praises Liverpool’s strong sart in win over Ipswich
05th September, 2026 07:31 AM
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola was pleased with both the result and the manner of his side’s 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Friday night, September 4, 2026, with Alexander Isak’s early double settling the Premier League encounter.
Isak struck twice inside the opening nine minutes to give Liverpool a commanding advantage and put them on course for their first league victory under Iraola. The Reds produced a particularly impressive first-half display before managing the game more cautiously after the break.
Reflecting on the performance, Iraola praised Liverpool’s intensity and response after conceding early goals in their previous two matches.
“Yes, very pleased with the win, obviously. We needed this win and as well with the performance – especially [in the] first half we have been a very good team. We put a lot of pressure to the opposition and I think we started really strong in the game.”
The Liverpool boss added that his players had learned from their previous setbacks and were determined to avoid another slow start.
“I think that we learned, probably, the lessons from the last two games where we conceded early goals and today we didn’t want this to happen, and we were really strong in the first half.”
Iraola acknowledged that Liverpool adopted a different approach after the interval, concentrating on controlling the contest and defending their advantage. He admitted, however, that the visitors were less threatening going forward in the second half.
“In the second half also, I think in a different way. We controlled the game, we defended well, but we didn’t have this threat offensively, probably. But overall, I think it’s a game to finish quite pleased [about].”
The victory was also highlighted by Isak’s impressive debut in Liverpool colours, with the Swedish striker wasting little time in demonstrating his finishing ability. Iraola believes the goals will naturally follow if the forward remains fit and contributes to the team’s overall performance.
“Yes, with Alex, if he’s fit, if he’s available, if he’s in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers. My demands with Alex will not be about the goals, probably. It will be about other things, I will demand other things so we can play well and if we play well, we are in good positions, the goals will come.”
Cody Gakpo was another standout performer, providing two assists for Isak before moving into the No.9 position late in the match. Iraola was pleased with the Dutchman’s contribution and versatility.
“I have no doubt with Cody. He has been very good all the pre-season, has started very well this season, producing numbers. Today again, after the two assists, he finishes [the game at] No.9 to help us close the game.”
The Liverpool coach also welcomed the competition for places within his attacking unit, saying the presence of several quality options would push the players to improve.
Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola made his Liverpool debut as a second-half substitute, with Iraola encouraged by the forward’s impact despite his lack of recent competitive football.
“But he was always a threat, you know? When he carries the ball, I think you can feel this threat and I’m happy because I think 30 minutes is going to be good for his fitness, for his build-up, and we will continue because now we play a lot of games, so he will have a chance to play more.”
Iraola also urged patience with Barcola, noting that the player had not featured during pre-season and would need time to regain his sharpness.
The victory was particularly significant for Iraola after he endured a difficult start during his previous Premier League managerial spell at Bournemouth. The Spaniard admitted that securing three points was important given Liverpool’s results in their opening matches.
“Definitely. That couldn’t happen today because I think two points also don’t reflect our two first games, but it was the points we had. So, definitely we couldn’t lose any more today and I’m happy because I believe we controlled quite well the game.”
Liverpool will now look to build on the convincing result as Iraola begins to establish his methods and philosophy at the club.
