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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They crave it intensely. Yet, their title hopes suffered in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they hope to conquer.

Despite their control in possession, it was that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Domestic Dominance But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, but for the team that has consistently triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the closest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, featuring a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have stung on every occasion.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, 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 now a expanded stage similar to the male competition.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, as Chelsea inflicting a 9-2 aggregate loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they would appear a bit changed one year on. “I hope we've grown somewhat and can fix our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth was evident, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or engage individually, they proved an efficient unit, frustrating the visitors who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

Twente's players celebrate their captain following the first strike.

Yet, Twente had the top chance in the first period. A player found space after a neat one-two with a teammate, yet rather of aiming for goal she passed for the team's leading striker but the effort was cleared by a defender.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, especially in attack. A forward ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

Second Half Drama

In the second half, a new signing found the net, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the passer deemed offside.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to change the game shortly later. Two players were replaced, including one with a head injury, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Missed Chances

The home side created a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a driven pass reached a teammate in the box but a tackle prevented the goal.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each passed without a goal, it felt like the home side might pay the price. However, it would be the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues continued pressing. They have not delivered exciting displays this season yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten earned the away side a penalty, although they might have had one earlier when a late boot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A winner escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back in future matches before facing familiar foes and title winners.