FAM TD Jack Chamangwana said the country does not have an Under-21 side; hence, its exclusion from participation at the Zone VI.
Chamangwana advised Malawi Schools Sports Association (Massa) to introduce the Under-21 league in schools.
But the coaches have described the excuse by FAM as a mere scapegoat, saying they could form an Under-21 side from the senior leagues.
“FAM could have just said it does not have funds to send the team. Our senior league is mostly composed of Under-21 players and it could have easily raise a team,” said Abramo Queens coach Nyadani Billie.
Concurring with Billy, One Goal Queens coach Yasin Zidana said select teams from the regions could have easily competed and formed a national team.