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The Champions League remains Chelsea's elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts far from the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

In spite of their dominance in possession, the home side who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance But European Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase replaced by league phase akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off in last season's opening round, with the Blues inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss on the Dutch champions. 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.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player had room following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to change the game soon after. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and a former Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead just before the hour mark. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without a goal, it seemed like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They have not produced thrilling performances this term yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A challenge on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

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