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The Champions League remains Chelsea's elusive prize. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

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

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team that has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase now a league phase akin to the male competition.

These two teams met during the previous group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance of the half. A player found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant went up, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The manager turned to her bench to try to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a head injury, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one sooner when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to recover in future matches before facing old rivals and former champions.