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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the ideal start to a tournament they aim to conquer.

In spite of their control in possession, it was that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have stung on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase akin to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance of the half. A player found space after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the changes taking a toll, particularly in attack. A forward should have done better from a cutback but fired over from the spot in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant went up, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The manager turned to her bench to try to change the game soon after. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the hour mark. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without scoring, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this season but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess chances to recover in future matches before facing familiar foes and former champions.