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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

In spite of their control in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, but for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them under 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 loss last season, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out costly as they began their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off in last season's opening round, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth was evident, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or engage individually, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

However, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart exchange with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from close range in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant went up, the passer having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two starters were replaced, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead just before the hour mark. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every passed without scoring, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner eluded them, yet they possess chances to recover in future matches ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.