Liverpool extended their Premier League lead to six points with a dominant 4-1 victory over Ipswich at Anfield, fueled by Cody Gakpo’s brace and a historic milestone from Mohamed Salah. Mcw analyzes the tactical masterclass, individual brilliance, and what this means for the title race.
Ruthless Reds Demolish Ipswich
Jurgen Klopp’s successor, Arne Slot, watched his side deliver another statement performance. Dominik Szoboszlai ignited the rout in the 11th minute with a thunderous strike from the edge of the box, setting the tone for a relentless attacking display.
Mohamed Salah then etched his name into Anfield folklore, converting a sharp chance from a Gakpo cross to notch his 100th Premier League goal at home—a feat no other Liverpool player has achieved. Gakpo, the standout performer, added two more: a poacher’s rebound before halftime and a clinical header from Trent Alexander-Arnold’s pinpoint delivery.
Ipswich’s Jacob Greaves grabbed a consolation goal, but the match was long decided, resembling a training drill for Liverpool. The Reds’ fluidity and tactical adjustments under Slot—particularly Gakpo’s shift to the left wing—continue to pay dividends.
Mcw Spotlight: Gakpo’s Historic Streak
Gakpo’s double marked his sixth consecutive Premier League home game with a goal, surpassing Dutch legends Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie. His versatility and chemistry with Alexander-Arnold (who hit the post later) have been pivotal.
Key Stats:
- 8 Premier League goals this season (matching last term’s total).
- 6 straight home games scored—a Dutch record.
- 3 goal involvements (2 goals, 1 assist) vs. Ipswich.
Post-match, Gakpo told Mcw: “Scoring at Anfield is special. Trent’s cross? World-class. We’re growing as a team—everyone’s in form.”
Title Race Implications
Arsenal’s 1-0 win at Wolves kept the gap at six points, but Liverpool’s game in hand looms large. The Soccer Saturday panel debated fiercely: Can anyone catch them?
Paul Merson argued: “Liverpool’s depth and Salah’s form make them favorites.”
Clinton Morrison countered: “Arsenal’s defense could force a twist.”
Ipswich’s Woes Deepen
Kieran McKenna’s side, fresh from a 6-0 thrashing by Man City, suffered another blow with winger Wes Burns stretchered off with a suspected knee injury. McKenna admitted: “It looks serious.”
Tactical Note: Liverpool’s high press forced 15 turnovers, with Szoboszlai (8.0 rating) and Alexander-Arnold (8.5) dictating play.
By the Numbers
- Salah: 19 league goals (most in 2024/25).
- Liverpool: 26 home points (league-best).
- Szoboszlai: 5 outside-box goals since 2023 (team-high).
What’s Next?
Liverpool face a tricky trip to Brighton, while Ipswich host Everton in a relegation six-pointer. For more in-depth analysis, stay tuned to Mcw—your home for elite football insights.
Final Thought: Liverpool’s firepower and tactical flexibility make them formidable. But with Arsenal lurking, the title race is far from over.
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