Paul Merson believes Juventus can win the Champions League

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has said that Juventus are the only team who can stop Barcelona from winning the Champions League this season.

The Italian team could progress to their first final since 2003 when they travel to Real Madrid on Wednesday night with a 2-1 first-leg lead, and Merson believes that they can win the competition.

He told Sky Sports News: "I think they're the only team left that can stifle Barcelona, and I say that because they've got very good defenders – proper defenders. That's why I think they've got a chance of lifting the trophy, I really do.

"If I'm being honest, I was well impressed with Juventus in the first leg, especially in the first 20 minutes. Real Madrid didn't have a clue what was going on. I couldn't believe how good they were, but they got knocked sideways a bit when it went 1-1."

Barcelona look destined for the final after they beat Bayern Munich 3-0 in the first leg of their semi-final.