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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They crave it deeply. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their control in possession, the home side that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

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 on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they started their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

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

However, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. A player found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she passed to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The manager turned to her bench 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 a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this term yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have earned one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have chances to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.