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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive trophy. They crave it intensely. However, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente not at all the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.

In spite of their dominance of the ball, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, but for the squad that has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the 2020-21 final the closest they came. Three straight semi-final defeats to Barcelona, featuring an 8-2 aggregate loss the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Team Changes Proves Costly

The coach showcased her squad's depth for the trip to the Netherlands, with only four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they began their European journey under a new format – the initial phase replaced by league phase similar to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off in last season's opening round, as Chelsea handing out a heavy overall defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've grown a bit and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

Twente's Maturity On Display

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, frustrating the Blues who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players gather around Danique van Ginkel after her first strike.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. A player found space after a neat one-two with Jill Roord, but instead of shooting she squared to their top scorer who was denied by a defender.

There was energy but a lack of teamwork, the rotations taking a toll, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but fired over from close range in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, slotting home a low cross, but the flag went up, the passer deemed in an illegal position.

The manager turned to the substitutes to try to change the game soon after. Two players made way, including one with a concussion, for fresh legs and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were limited and as each missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. However, it was Chelsea regretting their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain and she shifted onto her right foot and fired into the net.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't produced thrilling performances this term but they have secured results and away from home they continued that trend. A challenge on a player earned the away side a penalty, though they could have had one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner escaped them, but they have chances to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.