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Liverpool Dominate Ipswich as Gakpo Shines at Anfield

Liverpool maintained their grip on the Premier League title race with a commanding 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town at Anfield. A dazzling display from Cody Gakpo and contributions from other key players ensured the Reds secured their first home league win of 2025. Here’s how the match unfolded.

Gakpo’s Anfield Brilliance Continues

From the outset, Liverpool stamped their authority on the game. Gakpo was instrumental, opening his account in the 44th minute. The Dutch forward pounced on a rebound after Dominik Szoboszlai’s shot was parried by Christian Walton. Later, he doubled his tally with a precision header, courtesy of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s pinpoint cross, making it 4-0 and underlining his importance to the squad.

IMAGO

This performance took Gakpo’s tally to eight goals in nine matches at Anfield this season, reaffirming his clinical nature in front of goal.

Ipswich’s Struggles Persist

Ipswich Town entered the match desperately needing points to escape the relegation zone. Despite showing flashes of resilience, including a consolation goal from Jacob Greaves in the dying minutes, the Tractor Boys struggled to match Liverpool’s pace and intensity.

Debutant Julio Enciso provided a bright spot for Ipswich, delivering the assist for Greaves’ goal. However, Ipswich’s lack of attacking impetus, highlighted by their failure to record a shot on target until the second half, left them vulnerable to Liverpool’s relentless press.

Liverpool’s Tactical Prowess on Display

Arne Slot’s side demonstrated their tactical superiority, executing over 700 passes during the match—a season high in the Premier League. The midfield pairing of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch controlled the tempo, while Alexander-Arnold’s advanced positioning continually tested Ipswich’s defence.

The game’s turning point came early, with Szoboszlai’s low strike from 20 yards setting the tone. Mohamed Salah doubled the lead shortly after, beating Walton from an acute angle. By half-time, Liverpool had a 3-0 lead, effectively securing the points.

Ipswich’s Road Woes Continue

For Ipswich, the defeat extended their winless run against Liverpool to five matches. Kieran McKenna’s men now face an uphill battle to avoid relegation, with a worrying defensive record of conceding 24 first-half goals this season.

Although Ipswich showed some late fight, they were largely outclassed, managing just 38% possession and struggling to break down Liverpool’s organised defence.

Key Stats

Domination in Possession and Attack:

  • Ball Possession: Liverpool had a staggering 71% possession, indicating control over the game’s tempo and flow. This allowed them to dictate play and limit the opposition’s opportunities.
  • Attacking Prowess: With 16 total shots compared to 3, and 6 shots on target versus 3, Liverpool clearly created more chances. Their higher Expected Goals (xG) of 1.90 versus 0.43 further emphasises their superior attacking threat and quality of chances created.
  • Clinical Finishing: Despite creating fewer big chances (3 vs 2), Slot’s side missed none, while their opponents missed one. This suggests greater efficiency in converting opportunities.
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