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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' hard-to-catch trophy. They crave it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw versus the hosts not at all the ideal start to a tournament they hope to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the team that has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the nearest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats against the Catalan side, featuring a heavy combined loss last season, have hurt each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four players from the last game in the lineup, but it proved expensive as they began their European journey under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she said.

Home Side's Growth Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, irritating the visitors who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side gather around their captain after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she squared to their top scorer who was denied by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the changes taking a toll, especially in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but blasted high from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, yet the assistant went up, the provider deemed offside.

The manager looked to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters made way, one due to a concussion, for new energy and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created another golden chance to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post but a tackle denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce 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 pass back reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this season but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they extended that pattern. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting old rivals and former champions.