KUALA LUMPUR: The Speedy Tigresses let their lead slip as they suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Japan in the women's Asian Champions Trophy at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar, India, today.
It was Malaysia's third defeat of the tournament, leaving the world No. 24 side in a must-win situation against world No. 29 Thailand tomorrow to secure a top-four finish and a semi-final spot.
Malaysia scored first through Nur Iman Adawiyah Suhaimi in the 26th minute.
However, Japan turned the game around in the final quarter with goals from Shiho Kobayakawa (49th) and Miyu Hasegawa (51st).
National coach Nasihin Nubli admitted his team made costly mistakes, allowing Japan to capitalise late in the match.
"We made errors and allowed Japan to score in the final quarter. We need to address these weaknesses before facing Thailand tomorrow," he said.