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The Champions League remains the Blues' hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it intensely. However, their title hopes suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

In spite of their control of the ball, the home side that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Disappointment

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four starters from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase similar to the men's tournament.

These two teams met during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they were an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she squared to their leading striker who was denied by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The manager turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game soon after. Two players made way, one due to a head injury, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this term yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and former champions.