Banyana Banyana forward Hilda Magaia has taken the next significant step in her European journey after completing a move to Real Club Deportivo de La Coruña Femenino, widely known as Deportivo Abanca, in Spain’s top-flight Liga F.
The Dennilton-born attacker joins the Galician side following her departure from Mexico’s Club Tijuana, adding another chapter to a career defined by adaptability and big-stage performances.
Liga F represents the pinnacle of women’s football in Spain, mirroring the stature of La Liga on the men’s side, and Magaia’s arrival underlines Deportivo Abanca’s intent to add experience and cutting edge to their attacking options.
One of the most recognisable figures in South African women’s football, the 29-year-old is expected to report for duty in the coming days once administrative processes are finalised.
Magaia becomes the third South African currently active in Spain, joining teenage prospect Ayesha Moosa at CD Argual Femenina and former Banyana defender Noko Matlou, who is registered with CP Cacereño Femenino.
Her move further strengthens South Africa’s growing footprint in European women’s football and reflects the rising global demand for players from the reigning African champions.
Her club career has taken her across four continents, with spells in the United States, Sweden, South Korea and Mexico, in addition to her formative years at Tuks and TUT in Tshwane.
Magaia last featured for Club Tijuana in October, completing a full 90 minutes in a 2–1 victory over Puebla, though she has been absent from matchday squads in recent weeks.
Deportivo Abanca currently sit 12th in Liga F after 17 matches, having collected 17 points from four wins, five draws and eight defeats. They face a stern test next when they host title-chasing Real Madrid on Sunday, a fixture that could provide an immediate indication of Magaia’s potential impact. The club finished 14th last season and will be keen to secure top-flight safety earlier this time around.
Beyond club duties, Magaia remains central to South Africa’s continental ambitions. She is expected to play a pivotal role at the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the top four finishers will qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Drawn alongside Tanzania, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso in Group B, Banyana Banyana will look to their proven match-winner to lead the charge once again.
