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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it deeply. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to conquer.

In spite of their control of the ball, the home side that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the squad that has consistently won it all, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have stung each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager flexed the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four players from the last game in the lineup, but it proved costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the initial phase replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous opening round, with the Blues handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

At their stadium that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage one-on-one, they proved a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who launched wave after wave toward the goal.

The home side celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat exchange with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she squared for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit yet missing cohesion, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano ought to have scored from a cutback but blasted high from close range in their best effort, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the provider having been offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes to try to change the game soon after. Two starters made way, including one with a head injury, for new energy and an ex- Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the hour mark. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were limited and with every missed without a goal, it felt like the home side would be punished. Yet, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain who moved to her strong foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They have not produced thrilling performances this term but they have secured results and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on a player gave the visitors a penalty, though they could have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to make it even.

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