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Europe's premier competition continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it intensely. Yet, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance of the ball, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three consecutive semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach showcased the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they started their European journey in a new era – the group stage now a expanded stage similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off in last season's group stage, with the Blues inflicting a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side celebrate their captain after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the provider deemed in an illegal position.

The manager looked to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead right around the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a driven pass found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were limited and with every missed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this season yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have earned one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

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