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The Champions League remains the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to conquer.

In spite of their control in possession, it was who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, but for the team which has consistently won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have stung each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out expensive as they started their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage replaced by league phase akin to the male competition.

These two teams faced off in last season's group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. A player had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared to their leading striker who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the changes having an impact, particularly in attack. A forward should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, but the flag went up, the passer having been offside.

The manager looked to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players made way, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a driven pass reached a teammate at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling displays this term yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.