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The Champions League continues to be the Blues' elusive prize. They crave it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the ideal start to a tournament they aim to dominate.

In spite of their control of the ball, it was who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore converted from the spot to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance But European Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the team which has consistently triumphed domestically, the longing for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them under Emma Hayes’ reign, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three straight last-four losses against the Catalan side, including an 8-2 aggregate defeat the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased the team's strength ahead of the visit to Enschede, with only four starters from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they started their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage replaced by expanded stage similar to the male competition.

The two sides faced off during the previous opening round, with the Blues inflicting a heavy overall defeat on the Dutch champions. Van Ginkel stated they would appear somewhat different after a year. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she said.

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 were an efficient unit, frustrating the Blues who sent repeated attacks toward the goal.

The home side celebrate their captain after her opening goal.

Yet, the hosts created the top chance of the half. A player found space after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, yet rather of shooting she squared for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from the spot in their best effort, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag went up, the passer having been offside.

The coach turned to her bench to try to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters made way, including one with a head injury, for new energy and a former Twente player.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in the Chelsea third, a driven pass found a player at the far post but a tackle prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and with every missed without a goal, it seemed like the home side might pay the price. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A pass back reached the captain who moved onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

The Blues kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this season yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A challenge on Guro Reiten gave the visitors a penalty, although they might have had one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A victory eluded them, but they have opportunities to bounce back in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.