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Europe's premier competition continues to be Chelsea's elusive prize. They desire it deeply. Yet, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they hope to dominate.

Despite their dominance of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team which has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate loss last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, but it proved expensive as they started their European journey under a new format – the initial phase replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides met during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat on the Dutch champions. The captain stated they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Home Side's Growth On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who sent wave after wave at the home team.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. A player found space following a smart one-two with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she passed for the team's leading striker who was denied by a defender.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, particularly in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from close range in a key moment, while the keeper 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 was raised, the passer deemed offside.

The manager looked to her bench to try to change the game soon after. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross reached a teammate in the box but a tackle denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without scoring, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back found Van Ginkel who moved onto her right foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

The Blues continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a spot-kick, though they could have had one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

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