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Europe's premier competition continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it intensely. However, their title hopes suffered on Dutch soil, a stalemate versus the hosts far from the perfect beginning in a competition they hope to conquer.

Despite their control of the ball, it was that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Disappointment

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have stung each time.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, yet it turned out expensive as they started their Champions League campaign in a new era – the initial phase replaced by league phase similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides met in last season's group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel stated they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can fix what we did wrong,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

At their stadium that maturity was evident, Twente didn't attempt to compete with Chelsea's press or battle individually, they were a cohesive team, frustrating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. A player had room after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of aiming for goal she passed to their top scorer who was denied by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of cohesion, the changes taking a toll, particularly in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Action

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the provider deemed offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two starters made way, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead right around the hour mark. After regaining the ball in the Chelsea third, a driven pass reached a teammate at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every missed without a goal, it felt that Twente would be punished. However, it would be Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea kept pushing. They have not produced thrilling displays this season yet they've earned points and away from home they continued that trend. A challenge on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory eluded them, but they have opportunities to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and former champions.