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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They crave it deeply. Yet, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

In spite of their dominance of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the team which has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, 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 starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage now a league phase similar to the male competition.

These two teams met during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel stated they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance in the first period. A player had room following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she squared for the team's top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach turned to her bench to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every missed without a goal, it felt that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this term yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner escaped them, but they have opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.