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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They crave it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they aim to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat last season, have stung on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides met in last season's group stage, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I hope we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, particularly in attack. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

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

The manager looked to the substitutes to try to change the game soon after. Two starters were replaced, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every missed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. However, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting performances this term but they have earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner eluded them, but they have chances to recover against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and title winners.