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The Champions League remains Chelsea's elusive prize. They crave it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they aim to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, but for the team which has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the previous match on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players gather around their captain after her first strike.

However, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she squared for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, 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 helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the provider having been offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players made way, one due to a head injury, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the hour mark. After regaining the ball in attack, a driven pass found a player in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this season yet they've secured results and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.