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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. Yet, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they aim to conquer.

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

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, but for the squad that has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three straight semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach flexed the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the visitors who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she squared for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the changes taking a toll, particularly in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the passer deemed offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two starters made way, including one with a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without scoring, it felt that Twente would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They have not delivered exciting performances this term but they have earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have had one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A victory escaped them, but they have opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and title winners.