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The Champions League remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, but for the team which has consistently won it all, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they started their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a league phase similar to the male competition.

These two teams faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've grown a bit and can fix what we did wrong,” she said.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around their captain following the first strike.

However, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the passer having been offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes to try to change the game shortly later. Two starters made way, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. Having won possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every passed without a goal, it felt that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling displays this season but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have had one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

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