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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the squad that has consistently won it all, the yearning for the final piece is intense. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The coach 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 under a new format – the initial phase now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or battle individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side gather around Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. A player had room after a neat one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, especially in attack. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed in an illegal position.

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters were replaced, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the hour mark. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it felt like the home side would be punished. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this season but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back in future matches before facing familiar foes and title winners.