Sven Goren Eriksson's hiring as Mexican national team coach drew discontent from Mexican players, media and fans.

That will perhaps change after El Tri's loss to Argentina last night.

Those who doubt Eriksson, who watched his soon-to-be-pupils from a luxury box at sold-out Qualcomm Stadium, might want to see him on the sideline soon.

Eriksson, who flew from Mexico City to Tijuana yesterday morning, already has earned the support of one former national team regular.

Former Chivas de Guadalajara star forward Omar Bravo, a starter for El Tri during the 2006 World Cup in Germany, publicly supported Eriksson's hire as coach.

“I am sure he is capable, prepared coach who has all the intentions to put Mexico in the spotlight at the international level,” said Bravo during an interview for Mexican newspaper Esto. “He has the soccer background as a backbone.”

All 18 Mexican team owners approved Eriksson's hiring Tuesday during a meeting in Mexico City. They hope the former England and Manchester City coach can raise Mexico's credibility among the best teams in the world.

Eriksson coached England to two straight World Cup quarterfinals (2002 and 2006).

El Tri's outing last night against Argentina, No. 1 in FIFA's world rankings, could be a testament for the need of an internationally experienced coach.

Mexico's Jared Borgetti, Carlos Salcido and Andres Guardado openly criticized the hiring of Eriksson because he doesn't speak Spanish and has minimal knowledge of Mexican soccer.

“Of course it's time for players to speak up,” said Borgetti during Mexico's practice this week at the Olympic Training Center. “We've earned it. We're not machines or objects to not be heard.”

The comments surprised CD Guadalajara owner Jorge Vergara, who is said to have lobbied heavily to hire Eriksson.

“I want to congratulate the players,” Vergara said. “I believe it's the first time in the history of Mexico that players speak up without fear. Normally they didn't speak because of fear of not being selected (to the national team). I imagine now that they are playing in Europe they are sure they will be selected so they spoke. It's too bad that they made a mistake.”

Smooth surface

The playing field was close to impeccable. A new surface was put in after recent motorsports events. The short-cut field allowed for speedy low passes and more ball control. There were no blue San Diego end zone logos and Chargers helmet at midfield, which were present during previous Mexican matches at Qualcomm Stadium.

Campos honored

Former goalkeeper Jorge Campos, regarded as a Mexican icon, was honored by the Mexican Federation before the game. Campos started in the 1994 and '98 World Cups. Most recently, he was fired from the national team staff along with former coach Hugo Sanchez.