El Quinto Partido to debut on Canela.TV

Canela Media announced the premiere of its new original series, El Quinto Partido (The Fifth Match) a Canela Deportes Original docu-series, premiering on May 15th, ahead of the biggest soccer event this summer.

Co-produced by Latin Sports, hosted by Julián Gil and sponsored by Hyundai Motor America, El Quinto Partido dives deep into Mexico’s decades-long pursuit of advancing beyond the Round of 16, and finally win the elusive “fifth match”. The series uncovers the intense passion surrounding this quest, highlighting the resilience, pride, and unbreakable devotion of fans on both sides of the border who continue to believe that this is the year history can finally be rewritten.

With unprecedented access and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, observers and fans, the five-episode series follows Julián Gil as he embarks on a journey filled with humor, emotion, passion, and hope, in an attempt to answer the great question that unites entire generations: Why has Mexico never reached the elusive fifth match during the big event…and what must happen for history to finally be rewritten in 2026?

“Creating El Quinto Partido has been one of the most meaningful moments of my career,” said Julián Gil, host and co-producer of the series. “Partnering with Canela Media has been an honor, and I’m thankful to Hyundai for supporting this vision. I’m proud of what we’ve brought to life and can’t wait to share it with the fans.”

From the iconic chants echoing in the Estadio Azteca to the roaring stadiums of Los Angeles, Houston, Miami and Chicago, El Quinto Partido uncovers a story of identity, pride, and unwavering belief, all woven together by a dream shared by two nations.

“El Quinto Partido goes beyond recounting Mexico’s World Cup history,” said Felipe Osorio, SVP of Content Verticals at Canela Media. “It captures the cultural heartbeat of millions of fans who see the team’s journey as a reflection of their own aspirations. This series gives viewers unprecedented access to the people, moments, and emotions that define Mexico’s pursuit of a long-held dream.”​

El Quinto Partido will launch on Canela.TV in May 2026 as part of Canela.TV’s Verano de Gloria programming lineup, a fan-centric slate designed to bring audiences the content they crave during the world’s biggest soccer moment. Verano de Gloria delivers fan-first storytelling and insights crafted to capture the passion of the tournament and drive engagement all summer long. The slate fuels fandom with insider access and dynamic content that explores the past, present, and future of the tournament. In addition to original specials and documentary features, Verano de Gloria includes bespoke segments within Canela Deportes’ live shows: Copados, 100% Fútbol, and Idioma Fútbol, bringing expert analysis, cultural context, and real-time reactions directly to fans.

“El Quinto Partido captures the passion, devotion, and excitement that defines fútbol,” said Sean Gilpin, Chief Marketing Officer, Hyundai Motor America. “For generations, fans have carried the dream of seeing Mexico finally reach the Fifth Match, and the passion behind that hope is nothing short of extraordinary. As the world gears up for the biggest stage in soccer, Hyundai is proud to partner with Canela Media to amplify that spirit, celebrate the unwavering commitment of the fans, and stand alongside them as Mexico chases a historic milestone. This series embodies the heart, pride, and belief that drive the sport, and we’re thrilled to be a part of that journey.”