India squandered a decent lead and went down 2-5 to Japan in their final league encounter in the four-nation women's Singapore Challenge hockey tournament, on Sunday.
The Indian defence faltered miserably after half-time, letting in five goals. The Japanese girls scored almost at will to garner full points and take their tally to six points from three matches and claim second spot in the tournament.
India, the defending champions, finished a disappointing third after aggregating four points from three matches.
India drew with Malaysia 1-1 and routed hosts Singapore 6-0 in their previous league matches.
Unfancied Malaysia, who had earlier upset Japan 4-1, emerged champions after beating Singapore 2-1.
They won the tournament, gaining seven points from three matches.