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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to conquer.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the squad which has consistently won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have stung each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved costly as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase similar to the male competition.

These two teams met during the previous group stage, with the Blues inflicting a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've grown a bit and can fix what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player had room after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed to their top scorer who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of 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 made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to her bench to try to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters made way, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in attack, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side might pay the price. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this term yet they've secured results and away from home they continued that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have earned one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.