Pune, Aug 9 - Hosts India's hope of securing a bronze medal in men's U-21 Volleyball World Championship went up in smoke as they lost to Argentina 19-25, 16-25, 22-25 at Balewadi Sports Complex here Sunday.

Indian team had to contend with a fourth place finish, their best ever performance in the World Championship.

Argentina's Facundo Conte was the top scorer in the match with 13 points out of 37 spikes. For India, Gurinder Singh continued to be the ace attacker with a total of nine points.

'The Argentinean boys were at their best, we were not able to put up a strong opposition. But we have been able to prove ourselves as one of the finest teams capable of fierce competition in the event. It has been a learning experience for our boys and we feel enriched by the whole experience,' Indian coach Kumara said.