The reigning African champions begin their Group B campaign against Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso, with the tournament presenting an opportunity not only to retain the continental title but also to secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will automatically qualify for the global showpiece.
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.
"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.
Banyana Banyana head coach Desiree Ellis has unveiled her final 26-player squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with South Africa aiming to reclaim the continental crown in Morocco.
Bafana Bafana's FIFA World Cup campaign has already sparked plenty of debate among South African football fans, with analysts highlighting a noticeable improvement in the team's latest outing following a difficult opening match.
Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis believes South Africa's historic victory over Japan is evidence that the team is making significant progress ahead of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
Banyana Banyana bounced back from a heavy defeat to claim an impressive 1-0 victory over Japan in their second international friendly at J-Green Sakai Main Field in Osaka on Tuesday.
