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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. However, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente far from the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to dominate.

In spite of their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have stung each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved costly as they started their Champions League campaign under a new format – the initial phase now a expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams met in last season's opening round, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around their captain following the first strike.

However, the hosts created the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the rotations having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from close range in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, turning in a driven ball, but the flag went up, the provider deemed in an illegal position.

The coach looked to the substitutes to try to change the game soon after. Two starters made way, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each passed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this season but they have secured results and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, though they could have earned one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, but they have opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.