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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's elusive prize. They desire it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit in the Netherlands, a stalemate versus the hosts not at all the perfect beginning in a competition they aim to conquer.

In spite of their dominance in possession, it was that struck first, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the spot to level the scores.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy holds value, yet for the squad that has consistently won it all, the longing for the missing trophy is intense. It escaped them during Emma Hayes’ tenure, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three consecutive last-four losses against the Catalan side, including a heavy combined loss the previous campaign, have hurt each time.

Squad Rotation Proves Costly

The coach flexed her squad's depth for the trip to Enschede, with only four players from the last game in the lineup, yet it turned out costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by league phase akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams faced off during the previous group stage, as Chelsea handing out a 9-2 aggregate defeat to the Eredivisie winners. The captain remarked they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address what we did wrong,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that growth showed, the hosts avoided to compete with Chelsea's press or battle one-on-one, they were a cohesive team, irritating the Blues who sent wave after wave toward the goal.

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

Yet, the hosts created the best opportunity of the half. Leonie Vliek had room after a neat one-two with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed for the team's leading striker who was denied by the defense.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of teamwork, the changes having an impact, especially in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better from a cutback but fired over from close range in a key moment, while the keeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

After halftime, a recent addition scored a goal, turning in a driven ball, but the flag went up, the provider deemed offside.

The manager turned to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters made way, one due to a head injury, for fresh legs and an ex- Twente player.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the 60-minute point. Having won possession in the Chelsea third, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge prevented the goal.

Their opportunities were scarce and as each missed without scoring, it felt that Twente might pay the price. However, it was Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A cutback reached the captain who moved onto her right foot and fired past the goalkeeper.

Leveling Penalty

Chelsea continued pressing. They haven't delivered exciting displays this term yet they've secured results and away from home they continued that pattern. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, although they might have earned one earlier from a high foot caught a player. Baltimore scored to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have opportunities to recover in future matches before facing familiar foes and former champions.