Alexander Isak finally registered his first Premier League goal for struggling Liverpool, helping the team secure a crucial 2-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday.
Isak had gone five league games without a goal since his British record £125 million ($165 million) move from Newcastle in September. The Swedish striker ended that barren run at the London Stadium, scoring only his second goal in 11 matches across all competitions for Liverpool—his first coming in a League Cup clash against Southampton.
Cody Gakpo added Liverpool’s second in stoppage time, sealing their first win in four matches in all competitions.
Reds manager Arne Slot admitted there was a sense of relief, saying, “There’s definitely a feeling of relief because if you have lost so many times, then winning is important. We hardly conceded a chance, and we were able to create chances ourselves.” He added that avoiding an early setback and executing his preferred style of play boosted both the players and the fans, calling the performance “a good first step.”
Isak’s difficult start at Liverpool—derailed by injuries and limited match sharpness due to his prolonged transfer saga—made the goal even more significant. It was his first league goal since scoring for Newcastle against Brighton in May and brought an end to his 10-game goalless run for club and country. Slot acknowledged the moment felt “significant.”
Liverpool entered the match following a crushing 4-1 Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, the club’s third straight loss by three or more goals after heavy league defeats to Manchester City and Nottingham Forest. They had dropped nine of their previous 12 matches—their worst stretch since the 1953-54 season—and were struggling under growing pressure.
Slot has faced scrutiny over Liverpool’s poor form as well as his inability to spark Mohamed Salah’s performances. Salah, who has scored only five times this season, was benched for the third time.
Before kickoff, West Ham paid tribute to club icon Billy Bonds with a minute’s applause after his passing at age 79. The home side started with energy, but Liverpool eventually took control.
Isak initially appeared headed for another frustrating outing, firing wildly over the bar early on and seeing a close-range bicycle kick stopped by Alphonse Areola. Despite this, he stayed persistent, and on the hour mark, Gakpo squared the ball to him inside the box. Isak calmly slotted in the opener and celebrated with a knee slide before being substituted shortly after, receiving a handshake from Slot.
West Ham’s troubles deepened when Lucas Paquetá was dismissed in the 84th minute after picking up two quick yellow cards for dissent. Liverpool capitalised in stoppage time when Gakpo pounced on a defensive error and powered the ball past Areola to secure the win.
What You Should Know
Liverpool’s victory provided relief after a turbulent run of results, with Isak’s breakthrough goal offering hope for a turnaround.
The match also highlighted rising tensions at West Ham, capped by Paquetá’s late red card.
Meanwhile, increased security measures continue to be enforced at major Premier League venues, with authorities maintaining strict stadium surveillance, controlled entry checks, and enhanced crowd-monitoring systems to ensure fan safety throughout the season.
