Mexico sack Eriksson after defeat by Honduras

By Carlos Calvo

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico coach Sven-Goran Eriksson was fired Thursday, less than 24 hours after his team lost 3-1 to Honduras in a World Cup qualifier.

"This morning we talked to Mr Eriksson and announced his departure," Mexican Football Federation (FMF) president Justino Compean told a news conference.

"It's a fact results have not been what we expected."

Eriksson took over in June from Hugo Sanchez, who was sacked after 16 months in the job.

Wednesday's defeat in San Pedro Sula left Mexico fourth in the final stage of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying with three points from three games, below leaders United States (seven points), Costa Rica (six) and Honduras (four).

The Swede's position has been the subject of frequent speculation after several away defeats including two World Cup reverses in Honduras and one in Jamaica.

Under his leadership Mexico played five competitive away games, losing four and drawing one in Canada.

"Results away from home have to be better, I'm responsible," Eriksson told the conference. "I have to accept this without making a drama out of it."