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The Champions League remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to dominate.

Despite their dominance of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team that has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the male competition.

The two sides faced off in last season's group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain after her first strike.

However, the hosts created the top chance of the half. A player found space after a neat one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the changes having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without a goal, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.