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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. Yet, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to conquer.

Despite their dominance of the ball, the home side that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four players from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they started their European journey under a new format – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

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

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but blasted high from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, turning in a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The coach looked to her bench to try to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, one due to a head injury, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. Yet, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this season yet they've secured results and away from home they extended that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have had one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.