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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it deeply. However, their credentials suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy is precious, yet for the squad that has repeatedly won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss last season, have stung each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach flexed her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four starters from the previous match in the lineup, but it proved costly as they began their Champions League campaign in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the male competition.

These two teams met during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've grown a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to match the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel following the opening goal.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she squared to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing teamwork, the changes taking a toll, especially in the final third. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, turning in a driven ball, yet the assistant went up, the passer having been offside.

The coach turned to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players were replaced, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had a clear opportunity to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A challenge on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have earned one sooner from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

A winner escaped them, but they have opportunities to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.