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The Champions League remains the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it intensely. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance But European Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, but for the squad which has consistently won it all, the yearning for the final piece is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they got. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have stung each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the male competition.

The two sides met in last season's opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

The home side gather around their captain following the opening goal.

However, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the changes taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but fired over from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two players made way, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. Yet, it would be Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this season yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have earned one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back in future matches before facing familiar foes and former champions.