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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to conquer.

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

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Disappointment

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the squad that has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased the team's strength for the trip to Enschede, with only four starters from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved costly as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage now a league phase similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, with the Blues inflicting a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that growth showed, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their top scorer who was denied by a defender.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the changes having an impact, especially in attack. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a driven ball, but the flag went up, the provider having been 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 new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it felt that Twente would be punished. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this season yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A foul on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have earned one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory eluded them, yet they possess chances to recover against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.