Gianluigi Buffon is probably the greatest goalkeeper of his generation, but one thing that has eluded him forever is the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Thrice, Buffon has appeared in the final of Europe’s premier club tournament, finishing second best every time.

Back in 2003, appearing in his first Champions League final against fellow country rival AC Milan, a young Buffon rose to the occasion, saving two penalties off Seedorf and Kaladze in the shootout, only to eventually lose when 3 Juventus players fluffed their lines from the spot.

Two years ago, in 2015 he had watched haplessly as Neymar Jr had wheeled away in celebration, thwarting his dream of winning the UCL once again. The final score was 3–1 in favour of FC Barcelona.

In 2017, it was the Cristiano Ronaldo’s turn to play the villain. Juventus had looked solid in their road to the final, thwarting the young and exciting Monaco side and the mighty Barcelona en route.

But in the match that mattered the most, Real Madrid dominated the Old Lady, winning the tie 4–1, and retained the UCL trophy for only the second time in history.

Gigi Buffon and his Juventus teammates [Image: Getty]

It’s 2018 and…

Now, Real Madrid in the quarterfinals! Poor Gigi

Zidane’s Madrid side have been in top form all season in the Champions League despite their poor run in the Spanish La Liga, they remain clear favourites against the old ladies.

A victory for Juventus would only mean Buffon is getting his hands closer on the club trophy missing from his cabinet.

AC Milan and Barcelona both prevented Buffon to win the title, but now, AC Milan is no longer strong; while Barcelona remains a force.

However, his mission will be to overcome Real Madrid, right now. His team is in the quarterfinals, and the second to the last quest is waiting for him though.

Really ironic.

For all of my respects, despite being Chelsea’s fan, I do think if Juventus can lift up the title, I will have only praising him for everything he did. His loyalty and his strength to combat the age is incredible.

I hope Gigi Buffon can finish his legend book and retire, like, a golden figure of Italy and world’s football/soccer.

On what it would mean to finally lift the trophy 

It would mean a lot to me. It would be the greatest joy of my career, together with the [2006] World Cup, because it would almost be a reward – the end of a very difficult road paved by bravery, stubbornness, and hard work.

I have always wanted to win it and I have always been convinced that I can do it together with my team, the fans, my colleagues. That would be great – we can talk about it later if it happens! – Gigi Buffon