Banyana begin their Group B campaign against Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, chasing WAFCON glory and a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Despite the significance of the tournament, Magaia believes the squad cannot afford to think too far ahead if they are to achieve their objectives.
“For us, it’s about taking one game at a time,” said Magaia.
“It’s not about looking ahead, but about taking each game as it comes so that we can achieve our goals because, obviously, we have goals, which are qualifying for the World Cup and becoming African champions.”
The 31-year-old, affectionately nicknamed the “Breadwinner” after her match-winning brace in the 2022 WAFCON final, also reflected on her return to the national team following a frustrating spell on the sidelines through injury.
“It’s all God’s work. I’ve been in and out with injuries, but I’m grateful that I made the team. I’m happy that I was able to overcome all the injuries, be selected and be part of the WAFCON squad,” she said.
Head coach Desiree Ellis has selected a balanced 26-player squad that combines experienced campaigners with several promising youngsters, and Magaia is confident the newcomers will rise to the occasion.
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“In terms of the younger players in the team, I think they are really going to help us because they have been learning from us and from those who have been playing for Banyana,” she added.
“I know they have been wishing to be here, so now that they are here and going to WAFCON, I believe they are going to put in the work and be able to handle any pressure that comes their way.”
Banyana have also been boosted by the return of star striker Thembi Kgatlana, who missed the latter stages of South Africa’s title-winning 2022 campaign after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Her reunion with a fully fit Magaia gives Ellis another potent attacking option as South Africa aims to successfully defend its continental crown and book a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.