Buffon in mix for Ballon d'Or consideration

Juve goalkeeper legitimate rival for Ronaldo, Messi

MILAN, Italy - As Juventus looks to end a 21-year-wait for the Champions League title, there are those who believe Gianluigi Buffon can end a 54-year wait and be officially crowned Europe's top goalkeeper.

The rock of a team that recently embellished its growing pedigree with a record sixth consecutive title and record third straight league and cup double, Buffon, many believe, is in firm contention for the Ballon d'Or.