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The Champions League remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their title hopes took a hit on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts far from the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

In spite of their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, but for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three consecutive semi-final defeats to Barcelona, including an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase 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 to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain after her first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat exchange with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better 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 recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The coach turned to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two players made way, including one with a head injury, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every passed without a goal, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this season yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A challenge on a player earned the away side a penalty, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.