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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. Yet, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

In spite of their control of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the squad that has consistently won it all, the longing for the final piece is intense. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four players from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they started their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel remarked they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or battle individually, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

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

However, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. Leonie Vliek found space following a smart exchange with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. A forward ought to have scored from a cutback but fired over from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, yet the assistant was raised, the provider having been in an illegal position.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead right around the hour mark. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without a goal, it seemed like the home side might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea kept pushing. They have not delivered exciting performances this season but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A challenge on a player gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have earned one sooner when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing old rivals and title winners.