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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's elusive prize. They desire it intensely. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to conquer.

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

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, but for the squad that has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the previous match in the lineup, yet it turned out expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed after a year. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

At their stadium that maturity showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

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

However, Twente had the best opportunity in the first period. A player had room after a neat exchange 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, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a new signing found the net, turning in a low cross, but the flag was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a concussion, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

The home side created another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were limited and with every passed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this term yet they've earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. 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 scored to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and former champions.