Canela Media's 'El Quinto Partido' Explores Mexico's Soccer Dream

Canela Media, a leading multicultural media company driven by technology and innovation, has announced the premiere of El Quinto Partido, an original three-episode docuseries from Canela Deportes, debuting May 14, 2026, on Canela.TV. The series, produced in collaboration with Latin Sports, a company led by Julián Gil and Andrés López, explores Mexico's quest to break past the elusive “Fifth Match” in the world's biggest soccer tournament. Hosted by Julián Gil, the docuseries journeys through key cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, London, Miami, Madrid, Istanbul, and Milan, featuring exclusive firsthand accounts from soccer legends like Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Miguel “El Piojo” Herrera, and Raúl Jiménez. The series covers defining moments that marked generations, from the infamous “No era penal” to matches that brought an entire country to a standstill, addressing the central question of why “El Tri” has been unable to move beyond the fifth match.

In El Quinto Partido, Julián Gil leads conversations exploring the wounds, turning points, and hopes that have shaped the Mexican national team. Legends such as Enrique Borja, Oswaldo Sánchez, and Cuauhtémoc Blanco reflect on the pride and pressure of representing Mexico on the global stage. Coaches Ricardo La Volpe and Miguel “El Piojo” Herrera share what it means to lead “El Tri” in defining moments, while former commissioner of the Mexican Football Federation, Juan Carlos Rodríguez, speaks about the reality of Mexican soccer. The rival's perspective is also featured through former footballer Maxi Rodríguez, who recalls the decisive moment that marked one of the most painful eliminations for Mexico. Sports journalists including Enrique “El Perro” Bermúdez, Adriana Monsalve, Alejandro Berry, and Valeria Marín provide context and perspective throughout the series. Today, players like Raúl Jiménez and Santiago Giménez embody the hope of a fanbase that continues to believe.

“This story resonates deeply with every fan,” said Felipe Osorio, SVP of Content Verticals at Canela Media. “It reflects the passion, the anticipation, and the shared dream of millions of soccer fans who come together every four years for the sport’s biggest international stage, united in unwavering hope.” The series premieres as part of Verano de Gloria, a special programming event celebrating the world’s biggest soccer tournament, featuring original content across Canela Deportes shows including Copados, 100% Futbol, and Idioma Futbol. Additionally, Club Canela, Canela.TV’s free rewards program, celebrates the premiere with an exclusive reward, allowing registered users in the U.S. and Mexico to earn points through soccer-themed challenges and trivia for a chance to win a 75’’ television.