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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's elusive trophy. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the ideal start in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their control in possession, the home side who took the lead, 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, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they got. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players gather around their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, the changes having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but fired over from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the passer deemed offside.

The manager looked to the substitutes to try to change the game soon after. Two starters were replaced, one due to a head injury, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the hour mark. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and as each passed without a goal, it seemed like the home side would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They have not produced thrilling performances this term but they have earned points and away from home they continued that trend. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have had one sooner from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner eluded them, but they have opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.