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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. Yet, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, the home side who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded 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, including a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four players from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they started their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around their captain following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart exchange with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but fired over from close range in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won possession in attack, a driven pass reached a teammate at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this season yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors 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 chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and title winners.