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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. Yet, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Disappointment

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

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they started their European journey in a new era – the initial phase replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams met in last season's group stage, with the Blues handing out a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that growth was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate their captain after her first strike.

However, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. A player found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she passed for the team's leading striker who was denied by the defense.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from close range in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag went up, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling displays this season yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.