Nunez and Firmino score goals as Liverpool defeat Southampton.

Darwin Nunez and Roberto Firmino, two South American strikers, helped Liverpool defeat Southampton 3-1 at home on Saturday in the Premier League, the last game before the World Cup.

With 22 points after 14 games and the win, Liverpool moved up to sixth place in the league rankings, although Brighton & Hove Albion can overtake them when they play Aston Villa on Sunday.

In the sixth minute, Brazilian Firmino gave Liverpool the lead by diverting an Andy Robertson free kick into the goal.

Che Adams rose to head in James Ward-corner Prowse’s kick and give Southampton the lead for the first time under new boss Nathan Jones moments later.

In the 21st minute, Uruguayan international Nunez gave Liverpool the advantage again by volleying in a cross from midfielder Harvey Elliot, who is only 19 years old.

Three minutes before halftime, the striker, who joined Liverpool for a total of 95 million euros ($98.34 million) in June from Benfica, scored again, this time converting a close-range Robertson cross.

Although Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker had to make two excellent saves to maintain his team’s two-goal lead, Mohamed Salah missed a fantastic opportunity after he robbed possession and raced free into the area before mishandling the ball. The second half lacked the frantic energy of the first.