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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

Despite their control in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the team that has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just 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 now a league phase similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate their captain after her opening goal.

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 squared to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the changes having an impact, especially in attack. A forward should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the provider deemed in an illegal position.

The manager turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a head injury, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side would be punished. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this season yet they've earned points and away from home they continued that trend. A challenge on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and title winners.