Alexander Isak finally opened his English Premier League (EPL) account for Liverpool as the Reds secured a vital 2-0 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The 26-year-old striker, who joined Liverpool in a British-record £125 million transfer, had gone five league games without a goal and managed just one in 11 appearances across all competitions. He ended that dry spell in the 60th minute with a calm, composed finish following a cut-back from Cody Gakpo.
Gakpo later added a stoppage-time goal to seal Liverpool’s first win in four matches, giving manager Arne Slot much-needed relief after a miserable run that included nine losses in their previous 12 games, such as a 4-1 thrashing by PSV and consecutive 3-0 league defeats.
“There’s definitely a feeling of relief because after so many losses, a win is crucial,” Slot said. “We hardly conceded chances and created opportunities ourselves. This is a good first step—winning with a clean sheet is always important.”
Isak, who struggled with injuries and fitness issues after missing pre-season, had not scored a league goal since his Newcastle days in May. Slot described the goal as “significant” both for Isak’s confidence and for the team.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah was dropped to the bench for the third time this season due to a dip in form, having scored only five times across all competitions.
Before kickoff, West Ham paid tribute to club legend Billy Bonds, who passed away at 79, with a minute of applause.
West Ham started the match strongly, but Liverpool gradually took control. Isak had early chances, including a bicycle kick saved by Alphonse Areola, before finally breaking the deadlock with a low strike from Gakpo’s cut-back. Slot immediately substituted Isak after the goal, greeting him with a handshake on the touchline.
The hosts’ hopes faded in the 84th minute when Lucas Paqueta received two quick yellow cards for dissent, leaving West Ham down to ten men. Liverpool capitalized in stoppage time as West Ham failed to clear, allowing Gakpo to swivel and fire home from 12 yards, sealing a crucial 2-0 win.
