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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, but for the team that has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides met in last season's group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or engage individually, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player had room following a smart exchange with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their leading striker who was denied by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the rotations having an impact, especially in attack. A forward 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 Drama

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, turning in a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the passer having been offside.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have earned one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory escaped them, but they have chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.