Iraola: Competition is a good thing for all players.

Liverpool, nicknamed the "Reds," defeated Ipswich Town 2-0 in a key match of the third round of the 2026/27 Premier League season, thanks to two goals from Isak in the first half. Andoni Iraola stated that players should motivate each other on the pitch and believes that competing for playing time is a good thing for all players.

Six minutes into the game, Gakopo made a through pass into the penalty area, where Isak controlled the ball, took a few steps, and then fired a shot into the net, giving Liverpool a dream start with a 1-0 lead.

In the 9th minute, Gakopo made a diagonal pass, and Isak received the pass, broke through the defense in the penalty area, and scored with a low shot, helping Liverpool maintain their 2-0 lead over Ipswich.

Liverpool ultimately defeated Ipswich Town 2-0 away from home, securing their first Premier League victory of the season.

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola said, "I'm very happy with this victory. We desperately needed it, and I'm also pleased with the team's performance. We played exceptionally well, especially in the first half."

“We put a lot of pressure on our opponents and were in a very good state from the start of the game. I think we learned from the lessons of the first two games, in which we conceded goals early on, and we didn’t want the same thing to happen again in this game, so we played very strongly in the first half.”

Andoni Iraola noted, "The second half was similar, just in a different way. We controlled the game and defended well, but we may not have created enough threats in attack. But overall, I think we can finish the game with a fairly satisfied feeling."

Never doubted Jakob's abilities

"As long as Isak is healthy, available, and in good form, I think he can put up impressive numbers. My expectations for Isak may not just be scoring goals; I will also ask him to do other things to help us play better. If we play well and are in advantageous positions, then the goals will naturally follow."

Andoni Iraola also stated, "I think Isak must contribute to the team as a whole. When everyone can help the team, I believe goals and other positive factors will naturally follow."

Speaking about Dutch star Gakpo's influence on the field, Andoni Iraola said, "I have never doubted Gakpo. He has performed exceptionally well throughout the preseason and has had a great start to the season, consistently putting up impressive numbers. This game was no exception; after providing two assists, he returned to the number 9 position and helped us secure the victory. Having Gakpo is a good thing because he can play in all three attacking positions."

“Gakpo knows how much we value him, there’s no doubt about that, and I think very highly of him too. Of course, I will also make demands on him, because there is fierce competition for playing time in the team, and we have many excellent players in those positions. Ultimately, it’s about motivating and competing with each other.”

In addition, Andoni Iraola said, "It's the same with Conor Bradley, Ngumoha and Victor Muñoz. Sometimes they start, sometimes they come on as substitutes, and sometimes they don't even get to play. But I think competition is a good thing for all players."

Image source: Internet