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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to conquer.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined defeat last season, have stung on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased the team's strength for the trip to Enschede, featuring just four players from the previous match on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they started their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off in last season's group stage, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that growth showed, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side gather around their captain after her first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed to their leading striker who was denied by a defender.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from the spot in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag went up, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The manager turned to her bench in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players made way, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross reached a teammate at the far post but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without a goal, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain who moved onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this term yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A foul on a player earned the away side a penalty, though they could have earned one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.