Liverpool finally returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a workmanlike 2-0 victory over West Ham, secured by goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo. The result ended a nightmarish sequence that had seen them lose six of their previous seven league fixtures, a run that had raised serious concerns about their ability to compete for honors this season.
The opening goal arrived on the hour mark when Isak converted from close range following intelligent build-up play. After a corner was half-cleared, Florian Wirtz displayed composure under pressure, refusing to rush his cross and instead finding Gakpo in space. The Dutch forward’s cutback was perfectly weighted for Isak, who made no mistake with a first-time finish. For the Swedish striker, it represented his first league goal since his controversial big-money move from Newcastle.
West Ham’s hopes of salvaging something from the game evaporated when Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paquetá received two yellow cards for dissent within quick succession. The dismissal left the hosts with ten men for the final stages, and Liverpool capitalized when Gakpo added a second with a smart swiveling finish. The scoreline perhaps flattered the visitors, whose performance was far from their best.
Manager Arne Slot made significant changes to his lineup, most notably dropping Mohamed Salah to the bench in favor of a more defensively balanced 4-2-3-1 formation. Dominik Szoboszlai took Salah’s place on the right wing, providing greater protection for right-back Joe Gomez. The tactical shift addressed Liverpool’s recent defensive fragility, though it came at the expense of some attacking flair.
The match itself was largely forgettable, particularly a tedious first half that offered minimal excitement. The London Stadium’s vast expanses seemed to amplify the mediocrity on display, with genuine chances at a premium. However, Liverpool will care little about the entertainment value after such a difficult period. Three points, combined with Isak’s breakthrough goal, provide a foundation upon which they can hopefully build.