WINNIPEG – The Saskatchewan Roughriders celebrated their first Grey Cup victory in 12 years on Sunday night, defeating the Montreal Alouettes 25-17 at Winnipeg's Princess Auto Stadium. This win marks the Roughriders' fifth Grey Cup title, with their last championship coming in 2013.

As the final whistle blew, green confetti filled the air, and fans dressed in the team's colors flooded the streets in celebration. "In 12 years, we so needed this," said Denise Dagenais, a devoted fan wearing a green cowboy hat and jersey. She was among a group of superfans who described the game as "electric and lightning."

The Roughriders played in front of a sold-out crowd of 32,343, marking the 15th consecutive sellout at the stadium. The atmosphere was electric, with fans erupting in applause as the game neared its conclusion. "It’s the first time that I’ve been at the stadium here and to bring (the cup) home is amazing," said lifelong fan Angela Mennie, who has supported the team since her father purchased season tickets in 1974.

Despite the loss, some Alouettes fans remained optimistic. Stephane Binette, who has attended ten Grey Cup games, said, "I enjoyed the game. I wish we would have won. I thought the team came really close, but it’s a great game. It’s just fun to be here."

Back in Regina, fans took to the streets to celebrate. In the heart of Albert Street, known as the Green Mile, supporters chanted, "Let’s go, Riders!" and waved flags in a festive atmosphere. Twelve-year-old Shawn Alberts, dressed in a gopher costume resembling the team mascot, exclaimed, "I’m feeling great! Let’s go, Riders!"

Prime Minister Mark Carney was present at the game, performing the traditional coin toss. He faced some jeers from the crowd but remained unfazed, smiling and taking photos with fans. The halftime show featured American rapper MGK, who performed a medley of his hits, while Canadian rock group Our Lady Peace opened the event.

The game itself was a hard-fought battle. The Roughriders took an early lead with a single point from a 69-yard punt by Jesse Mirco. The Alouettes responded with a touchdown from quarterback Davis Alexander to Shea Patterson, putting them ahead 7-1. However, the Roughriders quickly regained control, scoring two touchdowns before halftime to lead 15-7.

In the second half, Saskatchewan extended their lead to 22-7 with another touchdown from Tommy Stevens. The Alouettes rallied, scoring 10 unanswered points to narrow the gap to 25-17. However, a critical fumble by Montreal in the final minutes sealed the Roughriders' victory.

The Roughriders' win not only ended a long championship drought but also showcased the passionate support of their fans, who celebrated both in Winnipeg and back home in Saskatchewan. The victory is a significant moment in the team's history, adding to their legacy of Grey Cup triumphs from 1966, 1989, 2007, and 2013.