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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. However, their title hopes took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they aim to dominate.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have stung each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage now a league phase akin to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

At their stadium that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the opening goal.

Yet, Twente had the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart exchange with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she passed to their leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from close range in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach looked to the substitutes to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters were replaced, including one with a head injury, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead right around the hour mark. Having won the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were limited and with every missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

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

A victory eluded them, yet they possess opportunities to recover against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.