Arne Slot began his tenure as Liverpool manager with a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road, providing a reality check for the newly promoted side in their first Premier League campaign in 22 years.
Ipswich Town entered the new season with hopes of defying the odds and surviving in the top flight. Despite making modest additions to their squad, they faced Liverpool without any new signings of their own, placing added focus on Slot, who has taken over from club legend Jürgen Klopp.
Slot’s team initially struggled to assert themselves, with their best chance in the first half coming when Trent Alexander-Arnold fired over the bar just before halftime. Ipswich, on the other hand, tested Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson Becker twice through Jacob Greaves and Omari Hutchinson, but the Brazilian made routine saves.
Ipswich’s performance, which included a presence from shirt sponsor Ed Sheeran, was commendable, but they lost momentum after Sheeran left for a concert in Serbia at the break.
LIVERPOOL BREAK IPSWICH RESISTANCE
In the second half, Luis Díaz created two significant threats, though neither forced Christian Walton into a save. Diogo Jota, unmarked six yards out, missed a header but soon made amends by scoring from close range after receiving a pass from Mohamed Salah.
Salah added a second goal shortly after, poking the ball past Walton to set a Premier League record for the most opening-day goals, now at nine. Ipswich, having held their own in the first half, found themselves outmatched as Liverpool capitalized on their chances.
Liverpool had further opportunities to increase their lead but were satisfied with the two goals, securing all three points. Slot’s victory extends Liverpool’s unbeaten run on opening day to 13 matches. While tougher tests await this season, Slot and his squad can be pleased with their second-half performance.
Ipswich’s battle to avoid relegation continues, with their next challenge being an away fixture against Manchester City.
