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Europe's premier competition remains the Blues' elusive prize. They desire it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a 1-1 draw against Twente far from the perfect beginning to a tournament they aim to dominate.

In spite of their dominance of the ball, it was that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark to level the scores.

Domestic Dominance Yet Continental Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware holds value, yet for the squad which has repeatedly triumphed domestically, the yearning for the missing trophy is powerful. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they got. Three consecutive last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat the previous campaign, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The manager showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the last game on the pitch, yet it turned out costly as they began their Champions League campaign under a new format – the group stage replaced by league phase akin to the men's tournament.

The two sides faced off during the previous group stage, with the Blues handing out a heavy overall loss on the Dutch champions. The captain remarked they would appear a bit changed after a year. “I trust we've matured a bit and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that growth showed, Twente didn't attempt to match Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who sent repeated attacks at the home team.

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

Yet, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek had room following a smart exchange with a teammate, yet rather of shooting she passed for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by the defense.

There was energy yet missing cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in the final third. Maika Hamano ought to have scored with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, and the goalkeeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a low cross, but the flag went up, the provider deemed offside.

The manager looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two starters were replaced, one due to a concussion, for fresh legs and an ex- hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had another golden chance to take the lead right around the 60-minute point. After regaining the ball in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each passed without scoring, it seemed like the home side would be punished. Yet, it was the Blues ruing their wastefulness. A pass back found Van Ginkel and she shifted onto her right foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this season but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they continued that trend. A foul on a player earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have earned one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore scored to make it even.

A winner escaped them, but they have opportunities to bounce back against upcoming opponents ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.