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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive trophy. They crave it deeply. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all 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 to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, but for the squad that has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their Champions League campaign under a new format – the initial phase replaced by expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look somewhat different after a year. “I hope we've matured a bit and can fix what we did wrong,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

At their stadium that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side gather around Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the top chance in the first period. A player had room after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. A forward should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag went up, the passer having been offside.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling displays this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, but they have chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and title winners.