Canadiens take 3-2 series lead

The Montreal Canadiens have taken control of their first-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning following a hard-fought 3-2 win in Game 5.

Alexandre Texier scored the decisive goal early in the third period, marking the fifth consecutive one-goal game between the two teams.

The young Canadiens squad has shown remarkable resilience against the veteran Lightning core, which now faces elimination on home ice.

Game 6 will take place in Tampa Bay, where the Lightning must win to keep their championship hopes alive.