Alexander Isak has returned to his lethal best, netting his sixth league goal in seven matches as Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over high-flying Brighton at Anfield on Sunday. Manager Andoni Iraola praised the Swedish striker’s clinical finishing, noting Isak now has three goals from his last four games:
“If we can put him in those positions, provide good crosses, good situations, he will score the goals,” Iraola remarked, highlighting the importance of Bradley Barcola’s wing play in setting up key opportunities.
Liverpool struck twice in quick succession in the first half, with Pascal Gross’s own goal opening the scoring before Isak doubled the lead. The win marks Iraola’s first Premier League victory at Anfield after previous disappointments on Merseyside.
Despite Brighton dominating possession (64%) and firing 17 shots, Liverpool’s defensive resilience limited the Seagulls to just a single effort on target. Yasin Ayari found the woodwork for the visitors, but Brighton’s nine-hour run without conceding in the league finally came to an end.
Liverpool, now fourth in the table and one point behind Brighton, celebrated their fourth straight victory in all competitions. The Reds are six points off the top, keeping their title hopes alive.
“Very happy for today, very happy overall for this fourth win… We needed a strong start, to be aggressive, recover balls, win duels, be dangerous in transitions. We’ve started better, and the game has gone differently,” Iraola said.
Liverpool playmaker Florian Wirtz was forced off due to an ankle knock, but Iraola is hopeful it is not serious:
“It doesn’t look very big but we are playing every three days so we need to see where he is.”
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler praised his team’s attacking intent, despite the loss:
“We really tried to create and win the game. They kept a clean sheet because they defended well… We didn’t have that efficiency.”
With Isak in irresistible form and the team gathering momentum, Liverpool are showing they can be contenders once again.
