🔗 Share this article

The Champions League remains the Blues' elusive trophy. They desire it intensely. However, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Heartbreak

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad which has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four starters from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues inflicting a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain remarked they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I trust we've matured a bit and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side gather around their captain following the opening goal.

However, the hosts created the best opportunity in the first period. A player had room after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared for the team's leading striker who was denied by a defender.

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

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, turning in a low cross, but the flag went up, the provider deemed in an illegal position.

The manager looked to her bench to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two players made way, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross found a player in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side would be punished. Yet, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling displays this term yet they've secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on a player gave the visitors a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

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