Salah, Nunez inspire comeback as Liverpool edge closer to title

Liverpool overcame an early setback against Southampton, with Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez leading a comeback in a 3-1 victory that extended their Premier League lead to 16 points on Saturday.

Arne Slot’s side fell behind at Anfield when bottom-placed Southampton took a shock lead through Will Smallbone in the first half.

However, Liverpool responded strongly after the break, with the often-criticised Nunez netting the equaliser before winning the penalty that Salah confidently converted to put the hosts ahead.

Salah struck again from the spot, taking his tally to 32 goals in all competitions this season, as Liverpool moved closer to their long-awaited 20th English league title and first since 2020.

Second-placed Arsenal, who have two games in hand, face Manchester United on Sunday, but Liverpool’s dominant form suggests their title charge remains on track regardless of the Gunners’ results in the final stretch of the season.

Chasing a treble, Liverpool will now turn their attention to Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, having secured a crucial 1-0 win in the first leg of their last-16 tie.

Slot’s side will also contest the League Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley on March 16, aiming to clinch the first silverware of the Dutchman’s tenure.

With only one league defeat this season, Liverpool will have nine matches remaining to seal the title after their cup final appearance.

Meanwhile, Southampton’s struggles continue, as they remain 13 points adrift of safety and inch closer to Derby County’s record-low Premier League tally of 11 points in a single season.