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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the ideal start to a tournament they aim to conquer.

In spite of 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.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team which has consistently won it all, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved costly as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side gather around their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. A player found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, especially in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but fired over from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

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

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters were replaced, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the hour mark. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this season yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have had one sooner from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.