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The Champions League remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they started their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

The home side gather around Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she squared to their top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in the final third. A forward ought to have scored from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters made way, one due to a head injury, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the hour mark. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this season but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one sooner from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, but they have chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.